Famous Danish Emperors & Kings

Christian X was King of Denmark from 1912 until his death in 1947. He also held the title of King of Iceland from 1918 to 1944 due to the union between Denmark and Iceland. Known for his authoritarian character, he emphasized royal dignity and power. Despite his initial reluctance towards democracy, he was forced to accept the limitations of his role during the Easter Crisis of 1920. He gained popularity as a symbol of resistance during the German occupation of Denmark.

George I of Greece was originally a Danish prince destined for a career in the Royal Danish Navy. At 17, he was elected king by the Greek National Assembly, supported by the Great Powers. His reign of almost 50 years was marked by territorial gains, including the peaceful cession of the Ionian Islands by Britain and the annexation of Thessaly from the Ottoman Empire. However, Greece suffered defeat in the Greco-Turkish War and George was assassinated in Thessaloniki during the First Balkan War.

Frederik IX of Denmark was educated at the Royal Danish Naval Academy and became crown prince in 1912. During World War II, he acted as regent on behalf of his father. He became king in 1947 and oversaw significant changes in Danish society, including the expansion of the welfare state and the entrance of women into the labor market. His reign saw the monarchy adapt to modernization and new demands. Frederik IX passed away in 1972 and was succeeded by his eldest daughter, Margrethe II.

Frederik VIII was King of Denmark from 1906 until his death in 1912. He served as crown prince for over 42 years, largely excluded from political power during his father's reign. Known for his liberal and reform-minded approach, he supported the parliamentary system introduced in 1901. Despite his short reign due to late accession to the throne and poor health, Frederick VIII made efforts to modernize Denmark. He was married to Louise of Sweden and had eight children, including Christian X and Haakon VII.

Sigurd Snake-in-the-Eye was a prominent Viking warrior and Danish king in the mid to late 9th century. He is known for his military prowess and leadership on the battlefield. With a semi-legendary status, he is believed to be the son of the renowned Viking Ragnar Lodbrok and Áslaug. Sigurd's historical counterpart may have been the Danish King Sigfred. He is considered an ancestor of Harald Fairhair, with his mother's lineage tracing back to Völsung, creating a prestigious ancestry connecting Harald and his descendants to Odin.

Guthrum was a King of East Anglia in the late 9th century, originally from Denmark. He led the Great Summer Army in alliance with the Great Heathen Army to conquer Anglo-Saxon England. After initial successes in East Anglia, Northumbria, Mercia, and Wessex, Guthrum was defeated by Alfred the Great at the Battle of Edington. Forced to surrender, he was baptised as a Christian and made agreements with Alfred under the Treaty of Alfred and Guthrum, establishing the boundaries of their territories and trade agreements, shaping the foundation of the Danelaw.

Sweyn Forkbeard was a skilled and ambitious ruler who rose to power through a combination of strategic alliances and military conquests. He successfully revolted against his father, Harald Bluetooth, to seize the throne of Denmark in the mid-980s. Sweyn then extended his influence to Norway with the support of Earl Eric of Lade. His crowning achievement was becoming the first Danish king of England in 1013, shortly before his death. Sweyn's legacy is marked by his prowess in warfare and his ability to expand his realm through calculated political maneuvers.

Harald "Bluetooth" Gormsson was a king of Denmark and Norway. He introduced Christianity to Denmark and consolidated his rule over most of Jutland and Zealand. His reign in Norway was brief and uncertain, likely lasting only a few years. He faced challenges to his rule, including the possibility of being deposed by his son Sweyn Forkbeard. Harald's legacy includes his efforts to unify and strengthen his kingdoms during a tumultuous period of Scandinavian history.

Frederick VI served as regent during his father's mental illness, being referred to as the "Crown Prince Regent". He became King of Denmark and Norway in 1808. During his reign, he chose the motto "God and the just cause". Frederick VI was the last king of Denmark-Norway, and his choice to use Danish for mottos influenced future Danish monarchs. He was succeeded by his half cousin Christian.

Frederik, Crown Prince of Denmark, is dedicated to his professional life as the first in line to the Danish throne. With a wide range of interests including climate change and sports, he actively promotes health and fitness among the people of Denmark. Through the establishment of the Crown Prince Frederik's Foundation, he supports students financially and encourages scientific expeditions. Frederik's commitment to making a positive impact on society is evident through his various initiatives and advocacy efforts.

Prince George of Denmark was the consort of Queen Anne of Great Britain from 1702 until his death in 1708. His marriage to Anne was arranged to strengthen an Anglo-Danish alliance. Despite being excluded from active military service by his brother-in-law, William III, Prince George supported his wife during her reign. He held the honorary title of Lord High Admiral of England. George's reign was marked by his easy-going manner, little interest in politics, and occasional use of influence to support Queen Anne.

Christian III of Denmark reigned as King from 1534 until his death in 1559. He established Lutheranism as the state religion, aligning the church closely with the crown. Through his leadership, Christian played a significant role in the Protestant Reformation, making Denmark-Norway the first Lutheran kingdom. He fostered strong ties between the church and the monarchy, shaping the religious landscape of his realms. Christian's reign marked a pivotal time in Danish and Norwegian history, leaving a lasting impact on the region's religious identity.

Frederick I was the King of Denmark and Norway, known as the last Catholic monarch of the region. During his reign, Denmark and Norway transitioned towards Lutheranism following the Protestant Reformation. Despite being King of Norway, Frederick never visited the country nor was he crowned there. He held the title of King of Denmark, the Vends, and the Goths, and was elected King of Norway. Frederick's rule initiated the tradition of alternating between the names Christian and Frederick for future Danish monarchs.

Haakon VII of Norway served in the Royal Danish Navy before being offered the Norwegian crown following the dissolution of the union between Sweden and Norway in 1905. He accepted the offer after a plebiscite and was formally elected king by the Storting. As king, Haakon focused on a representative and ceremonial role, rarely interfering in politics. He gained sympathy from the Norwegian people and played a crucial role in resisting the Nazi occupation during World War II. He reigned for nearly 52 years before passing away in 1957.

Cnut, also known as Canute the Great, was a powerful ruler who became King of England in 1016, King of Denmark in 1018, and King of Norway in 1028. He successfully united these three kingdoms under his rule, creating the North Sea Empire. Cnut focused on strengthening cultural bonds between Danes and English, as well as expanding his influence over Scotland and the Norse-Gaels. He wielded significant power within the Catholic Church, earning prestige and leverage among the magnates of Christendom.

Frederick VII of Denmark reigned as King from 1848 to 1863. He was the last monarch of the older Royal branch of the House of Oldenburg and the final king of Denmark to rule as an absolute monarch. His significant achievement was signing a constitution that established a Danish parliament, transitioning the country to a constitutional monarchy. Frederick's motto, Folkets Kærlighed, min Styrke (Danish for the People's Love, my Strength), reflects his commitment to the nation and its people during his professional life.

Cnut the Great was a powerful ruler who unified the kingdoms of England, Denmark, and Norway, forming the North Sea Empire. He strategically leveraged his control over these lands to exert influence over the maritime region between Great Britain and Ireland. Cnut demonstrated astute diplomatic skills by forging cultural bonds between Danes and English, and extending his authority over Scotland. His prowess in political maneuvering and governance earned him the reputation as one of the most effective Anglo-Saxon kings in history.

Frederick IV of Denmark reigned as King from 1699 until his passing in 1730. During his rule, he implemented reforms to strengthen the Danish state, including financial and military improvements. Frederick IV also worked to enhance the country's infrastructure, promoting trade and commerce through the establishment of new towns and ports. He engaged in conflicts with Sweden, seeking to expand Danish territories. Known for his interest in the arts, Frederick IV supported cultural endeavors and patronized artists and intellectuals.

Christian IX of Denmark became King in 1863, following the Second Schleswig War. His reign was marked by political disputes due to the country's recent transition to a constitutional monarchy. Despite initial unpopularity, his image improved over time due to his commitment to personal morality. He was known for his longevity on the throne and the strategic marriages of his children, earning him the title "the father-in-law of Europe." His descendants include current European monarchs such as King Frederik X, King Philippe of Belgium, and King Felipe VI of Spain.

Frederick II of Denmark was King of Denmark and Norway and Duke of Schleswig and Holstein from 1559 until his death in 1588. He inherited a strong kingdom and began his reign with military campaigns. Despite early belligerence, he pursued a more prudent foreign policy and focused on domestic tranquillity. Known for his interest in architecture and science, Frederick initiated various building projects and supported the development of the Danish-Norwegian fleet. He aimed to strengthen the kingdoms through advancements in science and culture.

Christian VII of Denmark's reign was overshadowed by mental illness, leading to a lack of real power as royal advisers constantly shifted. During 1770-1772, court physician Johann Friedrich Struensee implemented progressive reforms as the de facto ruler. His rule was short-lived as he was overthrown in a coup, leading to control by Queen Dowager Juliane Marie, Hereditary Prince Frederick, and politician Ove Høegh-Guldberg. Christian's son, later Frederick VI, served as an unofficial prince regent from 1784 until Christian's death in 1808.

Sweyn II of Denmark reigned as king from 1047 until his death in 1076. He displayed courage in battle, though his military leadership was not particularly successful. His tall and powerfully built stature is evident from his skeleton, which also indicates that he walked with a limp. Sweyn II's professional life was marked by his role as a monarch who fathered numerous children out of wedlock, including several future kings, despite facing challenges in military endeavors.

Frederick III of Denmark was King of Denmark and Norway from 1648 until his death in 1670. He also served as diocesan administrator of the Prince-Bishopric of Verden and the Prince-Archbishopric of Bremen. Frederick instituted absolute monarchy in Denmark-Norway in 1660, confirmed by law in 1665. He ordered the creation of the Throne Chair of Denmark and fought wars against Sweden, including the Dano-Swedish War of 1657–1658 and the Dano-Swedish War of 1658–1660. Frederick disbanded the elective monarchy in favor of absolute monarchy, which lasted until 1848 in Denmark.

Harald II of Denmark was King of Denmark from 1014 until his death in around 1018. He served as regent during his father's conflict in England and inherited the throne in 1014. Harald II held the Danish throne while his brother, Cnut the Great, conquered England. Following his death, Cnut the Great succeeded him as king. Harald II's professional life as King of Denmark is characterized by his regency, inheritance of the throne, and his role during Cnut the Great's conquest of England.

Christian V of Denmark was the King of Denmark and Norway from 1670 until his death in 1699. He was well-regarded by the common people and consolidated his power as an absolute monarch by anointing himself at Frederiksborg Castle chapel. Christian strengthened the absolutist system by including nobles and commoners in state service. He demonstrated his authority through architecture, aspiring to create a Danish Versailles. He utilized the Throne Chair of Denmark for this purpose and his motto was "Pietate et Justitia" (With piety and justice).

Valdemar I Knudsen, known as Valdemar the Great, ruled as the King of Denmark from 1154 until his passing in 1182. His reign marked a crucial period in Danish history, witnessing the nation's ascent to prominence. Valdemar I's leadership was instrumental in the growth and development of Denmark, laying the foundation for its medieval zenith under his successor, King Valdemar II. Through his strategic decisions and governance, Valdemar I played a pivotal role in shaping the trajectory of Denmark's political and social landscape.

Christian II of Denmark reigned as King of Denmark, Norway, and Sweden during the Kalmar Union. He faced challenges maintaining the union, leading to conflict with Sweden and his eventual deposition. Christian attempted radical reforms in Denmark but faced opposition from the nobility. After being exiled, he made unsuccessful attempts to reclaim his thrones. Despite support from loyalists, he remained in captivity until his death, marked by the failed Count's Feud in 1536.

Canute IV of Denmark, also known as Canute the Holy or Saint Canute, reigned as King of Denmark from 1080 to 1086. He was a determined monarch who worked to strengthen the Danish monarchy and was a devoted supporter of the Roman Catholic Church. Canute also harbored ambitions for the English throne. Tragically, he was assassinated by rebels in 1086, becoming the first Danish king to be canonized by the Roman Catholic Church. He was later recognized as the patron saint of Denmark in 1101.

Valdemar II Valdemarsen, also known as Valdemar the Victorious, was the King of Denmark from 1202 to 1241. He expanded Danish territories by conquering Lybeck and Holstein. His involvement in the Norwegian succession led to the second Bagler War, establishing Danish influence in Norway. Valdemar faced disputes with the papacy over ecclesiastical appointments. He conducted military campaigns in northern Germany and established Danish rule in Estonia. Valdemar's reign saw the implementation of a feudal system in Denmark and the creation of the Code of Jutland, Denmark's legal code until 1683.

Christian VI of Denmark was King of Denmark and Norway from 1730 to 1746. Known for his authoritarian regime, he was a skilled politician who avoided engaging in wars, a departure from his predecessors. He introduced compulsory confirmation in 1736 and established a public, nationwide school system in 1739. Christian VI's motto was "Deo et populo" (for God and the people), reflecting his commitment to both religion and his subjects.

Christian IV of Denmark was the King of Denmark and Norway and Duke of Holstein and Schleswig for over 59 years, the longest reign in Scandinavian history. Known for his ambition and proactive nature, he implemented various reforms and projects that brought stability and wealth to his kingdoms. Christian IV led Denmark-Norway into several wars, including the devastating Thirty Years' War. He also rebuilt and renamed the Norwegian capital Oslo to Christiania, leaving a lasting legacy on the region until 1925.

Frederick, Hereditary Prince of Denmark, served as regent following the fall of Johann Friedrich Struensee in 1772, due to King Christian VII's mental instability. However, after the coup of 1784, where the king's son Crown Prince Frederick assumed power, Frederick, Hereditary Prince of Denmark, was marginalized and left without influence at the court.

Christopher of Bavaria served as King of Denmark (1440–48, as Christopher III), Sweden (1441–48), and Norway (1442–48) during the Kalmar Union era. His reign was marked by attempts to strengthen the union's authority, facing challenges from the nobility and ongoing conflicts. Christopher's rule saw power struggles within the union, including disputes with the Swedish regent Karl Knutsson Bonde. Despite efforts to consolidate power, his reign was characterized by internal conflicts and struggles to maintain control over the three kingdoms.

Christian VIII of Denmark was the King of Denmark from 1839 to 1848. Prior to his reign, he also briefly served as King of Norway in 1814. Christian Frederick, as he was previously known, was the eldest son of Hereditary Prince Frederick. He became heir presumptive to the Danish-Norwegian throne in 1808 due to the lack of direct heirs in the royal family. Throughout his reign, Christian VIII focused on promoting constitutional reforms and enhancing the unity between Denmark and Norway.

Valdemar IV Atterdag, also known as Valdemar Christoffersen or Waldemar, reigned as King of Denmark from 1340 to 1375. His professional life was marked by the successful reunification of Denmark following a period of financial turmoil caused by previous rulers. He implemented strategic policies to restore the country's stability and independence after it had been bankrupted and mortgaged to finance wars. Valdemar IV's legacy is defined by his efforts to strengthen Denmark's position both domestically and in the wider European political landscape.

Frederick V of Denmark reigned from 1746 until his death in 1766. He oversaw a period of growth in commerce, trade, art, and science. While he had limited personal influence due to his hedonistic nature and struggles with alcoholism, his reign was guided by able ministers influenced by the Age of Enlightenment. Under his rule, Denmark-Norway avoided European wars, promoted commerce and emerging industry, and reinstated public entertainment and freedom of expression that had been banned during his father's reign.

Christian I of Denmark was a German noble and Scandinavian monarch who ruled over Denmark, Norway, and Sweden under the Kalmar Union. He was the first king of the House of Oldenburg. Christian's accession to the thrones of Norway and Sweden briefly restored unity in the Kalmar Union. His attempt to reconquer Sweden led to a defeat at the Battle of Brunkeberg in 1471. Additionally, Christian became Duke of Schleswig and Count of Holstein after the death of his uncle, Duke Adolphus of Schleswig.

Eric V Klipping was King of Denmark from 1259 to 1286. His mother Margaret Sambiria served as regent until 1266, demonstrating strong leadership. Following a period of captivity in Holstein in 1261-1262, he resided in Brandenburg as a captive of Margrave John I. Despite these challenges, Eric V's reign saw significant political developments in Denmark. He faced both internal and external conflicts, displaying resilience and determination to maintain stability and strengthen his rule during his time as king.

John, King of Denmark, was a Scandinavian monarch who ruled over Denmark, Norway, and Sweden. He also held the titles of Duke of Schleswig and Holstein jointly with his brother. His main political objectives included the revival of the Kalmar Union, diminishing the influence of the Hanseatic League, and strengthening the Danish royal authority. Throughout his reign, John worked diligently to achieve these goals, aiming to consolidate his power and establish a more dominant position for the Danish crown in the region.

Canute VI of Denmark reigned as king from 1182 to 1202. Known for his strong religious beliefs, he was described as earnest and devout by contemporary sources. During his rule, Canute faced various challenges, including conflicts with neighboring powers and internal disputes within the kingdom. Despite these challenges, he worked to maintain stability and order within Denmark. Canute VI's reign was marked by his commitment to his faith, which influenced his decisions and approach to ruling the kingdom.

Magnus the Strong, also known as Magnus Nilsson, was a Danish duke who ruled Gothenland in southern Sweden during the 1120s-1132. While disputed if he was elected king by the Swedes, he is sometimes included in the modern list of Swedish monarchs as Magnus I. He was briefly co-king of Denmark until his death. Snorri Sturlason referred to him as "Strong." His reign marked a period of influence and power in both Sweden and Denmark, despite the uncertainty surrounding his official royal status.

Eric VI Menved became King of Denmark at the young age of 12 after his father's murder. His mother ruled on his behalf until he came of age in 1294. During his reign, he faced challenges from nobles and neighboring countries. He implemented centralizing reforms to strengthen royal authority and consolidated power through alliances and military campaigns. Known for his assertive rule, Eric VI faced criticism for his aggressive policies and taxation measures. His reign was marked by both internal strife and external conflicts.