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Mangus I ruled Norway with Hardrada. Harthacut was the Danish ruler of England. Because neither country had an heir to the throne, they promised each other the kingdom in the event of their death.
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After the death of Cnut, the Norwegian King, Edward was able to unify England and crown himself the King of England.
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Similar to how the Norwegians invaded England but were held off, they invaded Scotland during the rule of Duncan I. Macbeth, along with Banquo, another general in Duncan’s army were able to hold of the Norwegians and keep Scotland free of their terror.
Another place we see a connection between Macbeth and the Norwegian invasion is when Macbeth claims the throne held by Duncan. Just like Harald and William, Macbeth claims he has a right to the throne and takes it from Duncan after murdering him. -
Harold's ship was blown off course and he landed off the coast of Ponthieu. There he was captured by Count Guy I and taken hostage. He remained there until Duke William of Normandy took Harold from Count Guy I.
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Being rescued, Harold swore on sacred relics to support William's claim to the throne of England. Harold was later knighted by William and fought with him against Conan II, Duke of Brittany.
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Although highly debated, it is believed that Edward the Confessor had originally promised his throne to William of Normandy, the rightful heir to the throne. However, Harold Godwinson claims Edward changed his mind and promised the throne to him on his deathbed.
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Tostig was Harold's exiled brother. Tostig raided different parts of England, but was quickly driven back. He retreated to prepare recruiting new troops.
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At the same time, Harald Hardrada, the King of Norway claimed his right to the throne. He said that the deal Magnus made with Harthacut gave the throne to him, since Magnus had already passed away. At this point, William had also claimed the throne and urged Harald to invade England. Tostig has also joined forces with Harald against his brother Harold.
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King Harald began his invasion on the north shore of England, sailing in with over 300 ships. He advanced on York and defeated the English army, taking control of the city.
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Harold receives news of the invasion from the north and left immediately, gathering forces along the way.
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Harold was able to reach Harald in a short amount of time and surprise attack him at the Stamford Bridge. Harold quickly decimated the Viking army. Both Harald and Tostig died in the battle and nearly all of the Viking army was killed, thus bringing the Viking Age to an end.
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After defeating Harald, Harold and his army celebrated the victory at Stamford Bridge. The celebration did not last however, as Harold received word of William of Normandy landing on the south shore.
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The Battle of Hastings ensues as William attacks Harold's exhausted army. William's cavalry eventually broke through Harold's defenses, killing Harold in the onslaught. After that Harold's leaderless army was easily defeated by William's army, allowing him to take the throne.
