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Kings and Empires
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At the beginning of the Viking age, in the late 8th century, only Denmark was united under one king, and even he did not rule the whole country. Southern Norway was united by King Harold Fine-Hair in about 890. Sweden was not united until the 12th century. At this time, kings still depended on the support of nobles and chieftains. Assemblies, called "Things", made the laws. As time went on, people wanted a king who could command armies and enforce law and order over a large area. Royal government became more powerful and kings made their own laws. The greatest of them was the Danish king Cnut. Before his death in 1035, he ruled Denmark, Norway, part of Sweden, and England.
(A) KING CNUT
Cnut's courtiers told him how great he was. 'Even the tide would go out if you ordered it,' they said. Cnut sat on the beach and ordered the waves to retreat. He got wet and his courtiers felt foolish!
(B) NOBLES
Danish and English nobles watched as King Cnut ordered the tide to retreat.
(C) DANISH EMPIRE
Greatest of the Danish kings, Cnut ruled all of Denmark, Norway, England, and part of Sweden.
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Previous:
Back
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Book:
The Vikings
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Section:
The Vikings
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Chapter:
Kings and Empires
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