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Norway’s King Harald V dies and his son becomes King Haakon VIII
AP News • • general
Key Points:
- King Harald V of Norway, the oldest reigning monarch in Europe, died at age 89 in Oslo, with his son Haakon automatically succeeding him as King Haakon VIII.
- Harald, who was born in Norway in 1937 and went into exile in the U.S. during Nazi occupation, modernized the Norwegian monarchy and was known for his long service and symbolic role in the country’s democracy.
- He famously married his school sweetheart Sonja Haraldsen against initial royal expectations, and their marriage was widely celebrated by Norwegians.
- Harald was praised for his leadership during national tragedies, including his 2011 speech after the terrorist attacks, and for promoting inclusivity and diversity in Norway.
- The royal family faced scandals in recent years involving his daughter-in-law’s controversial connections and his granddaughter’s unconventional public profile, but Harald remained committed to his lifelong role until his death.
