Sweyn Forkbeard

Sweyn Forkbeard was a Viking ruler and king of Denmark, Norway, and parts of England during the late 10th and early 11th centuries. Known for his military skill and naval prowess, he led several successful raids and invasions across Europe. His aggressive campaigns ultimately helped him extend his influence into England, where he was proclaimed king in 1013. Sweyn's reign marked a significant period of Viking expansion into the British Isles. He was called "Forkbeard" because of a distinctive beard shape or style. His leadership laid the groundwork for his son, Cnut the Great, to become a powerful ruler of a North Sea empire.