Olaf Guthfrithson Biography

Succeeds as King of Denmark

Olaf Guthfrithson succeeds his father Gofraid as King of Dublin and becomes a leading Uí Ímair ruler.

Olaf Guthfrithson allies with Constantine II of Scotland before launching a major campaign against Athelstan.

Edward the Elder defeats Constantine II, Guthfrthsson & the King of Strathclyde

Olaf Guthfrithson commands Viking forces with Constantine II but is defeated by Athelstan and Edmund.

Olaf Guthfrithson returns to Ireland after the defeat at Brunanburh and resumes rule in Dublin.

Becomes King of York

Olaf Guthfrithson captures York and strengthens Norse power in Northumbria.

While English magnates elect a successor to Athelstan Olaf invades from the Irish sea

After Athelstan dies, Olaf Guthfrithson leaves Dublin and invades Northumbria to restore Norse rule.

Olaf Guthfrithson establishes himself as King of York with little immediate resistance after Athelstan's death.

Olaf Guthfrithson advances into Mercia but is repulsed at Northampton during his campaign against Edmund.

Olaf Guthfrithson attacks Tamworth during the struggle for control of the Midlands.

Olaf Guthfrithson takes Leicester during his campaign in the English Midlands.

Olaf Guthfrithson storms Tamworth during the Mercian campaign, causing heavy losses on both sides.

Olaf Guthfrithson reaches a settlement with Edmund near Leicester after gaining control in the Danelaw.

Olaf Guthfrithson expands Norse influence in the Midlands after Athelstan's death.

Olaf Guthfrithson strengthens a Norse kingdom centred on York and the Humber region.

Olaf Guthfrithson is forced back at Northampton during his campaign against Edmund.

Olaf Guthfrithson reaches a mediated settlement with Edmund at Leicester after the Mercian campaign.

Death of Olaf Guthfrithson

Olaf Guthfrithson dies while ruling York and Northumbria and is succeeded by Olaf Cuaran.

Replaced as King of York by his cousin Sihtricsson who is a less formidable opponent