A battle fought for the throne of Norway. King Olaf Haraldson was killed at the battle and Harald Haradrada, his step-brother, escaped and went into exile.

After many years in exile Harald Hardrada returned to Norway to claim the Norwegian throne. His nephew Magnus was King of Norway and it was agreed that they should share the country's rule.

Magnus, King of Norway and Denmark, died in this year. Magnus had stated that Harold Hardrada should become King of Norway after his death.

After almost twenty years of conflict, the rulers of Norway and Denmark, Harald Hardrada and Sweyn Estrithson made peace. This allowed Harald to turn his attentions to England where he believed he had a right to the throne. In 1038 Magnus of Norway and Harthacnut of Denmark had signed a treaty that specified if either died without an heir his kingdom must pass to the other. When Harthacnut died childless in 1042 Magnus claimed both Denmark and England as his own. It was this claim that Harald was basing his own claim upon.

Harold Hardrada's forces invaded England and started ravaging the countryside as they made their way to York. English forces led by Earl Edwin and Earl Morcar battled with Harold Hardrada at Gate Fulford, but the English were severely beaten. Following this defeat King Harold was forced to march his army away from the south coast where they were preparing to defend against William the Conqueror's invasion to deal with the invasion in the north.

King Harold defeated the invasion threat from Harold Hardrada, King of Norway and his own brother Tostig, both of whom were killed. This stretched his forces to the limit as they quickly had to march south to defend against William the Conqueror's invasion from Normandy.