Harald I (854?-933?), also spelled Harold, was the first king of Norway. He united most of what is now Norway about 900, after defeating many local rulers. He became known as Harald Fairhair (or Finehair).
Harald Halfdansson succeeded his father, Halfdan the Black, as ruler of Vestfold, a small kingdom in what is now southeastern Norway. Harald extended his authority to other areas of the country, mainly by conquering local chieftains in battle. His most important victory came at Hafrsfjord, near Stavanger. Norse sagas (stories of heroic deeds) claim that Harald’s harsh rule caused many opposing leaders and their followers to leave for Iceland and other territories.
