Harold, son of Harold Godwinson facts for kids

Harold (lived around 1067 – 1098) was a son of Harold Godwinson, who was King of England. After the Norman conquest of England, Harold had to leave his home country. He found a safe place to live at the court of the king of Norway.

Harold's Family Background

Harold's family, the House of Godwin, was one of the most powerful families in England before the Normans arrived. His grandfather was Godwin, Earl of Wessex, a very important earl. Harold's father, Harold Godwinson, inherited his father's title and then became King of England in early 1066.

Harold Godwinson had two wives. His first wife was Edith Swan-neck. His second wife was Ealdgyth, who was the sister of two other powerful earls, Edwin and Morcar. Most historians believe that Ealdgyth was Harold's mother.

Harold was probably born in Chester after his father had died. His mother had gone to Chester to escape the army of William the Conqueror, who was taking over England. Some people have suggested that Harold was a twin of Ulf Haroldson, but this is likely not true.

Life in Exile

By late 1069, the Normans had taken control of Chester. Harold and his mother likely left the city before this happened. Their most obvious safe place would have been Dublin, a city in Ireland that was controlled by Norse-Irish people. Other members of Harold's family had found safety there before.

At some point, Harold sailed to Norway. The king of Norway welcomed him. The Norwegian royal family remembered that Harold Godwinson had been very kind. He had allowed Olaf, the son of Harald Hardrada, to return home after the difficult battle of Stamford Bridge.

In 1098, Harold joined Magnus III Barelegs, who was the king of Norway, on an important journey. They traveled to several islands, including Orkney, the Hebrides, the Isle of Man, and Anglesey. After this trip, there are no more historical records that mention Harold.