Harald V

Harald V
Name	Harald V
Caption	Harald V in 2019
Succession	King of Norway
Reign	17 January 1991 – present
Coronation	23 June 1991
Predecessor	Olav V
Successor	Heir apparent: Crown Prince Haakon
Spouse	Sonja Haraldsen (m. 1968)
Issue	Princess Märtha Louise, Crown Prince Haakon
House	Glücksburg
Father	Olav V
Mother	Princess Märtha of Sweden
Birth date	21 February 1937
Birth place	Skaugum, Akershus, Norway

Harald V is the reigning King of Norway, having ascended to the throne following the death of his father, Olav V, in 1991. He is a member of the House of Glücksburg and the first Norwegian-born monarch since Olav IV in the 14th century. His reign has been characterized by modernization of the monarchy and steadfast support for national unity, particularly during events like the 2011 Norway attacks.

Early life and education

He was born at the Skaugum estate in Akershus during the German occupation of Norway, a period that forced the royal family into exile. He spent part of his childhood in Washington, D.C., where his mother, Princess Märtha of Sweden, and his grandfather, Haakon VII, represented Norway's interests. After the war and the family's return, he completed his secondary education at the Oslo Cathedral School. He subsequently pursued higher education, studying social science, history, and economics at the University of Oslo before attending the Norwegian Military Academy and Balliol College, Oxford.

Military career

His military service began with education at the Norwegian Military Academy, where he received his commission. He furthered his training with studies at the Cavalry Officers' Candidate School and served in various branches, including the Norwegian Army and the Royal Norwegian Navy. He attained the rank of General in the army and Admiral in the navy, honorary titles reflecting his role as formal commander-in-chief. His service included participation in national exercises and fostering strong ties with institutions like the Norwegian Armed Forces and NATO.

Reign

His accession occurred on 17 January 1991, and his formal consecration took place in the Nidaros Cathedral in Trondheim. As a constitutional monarch, his duties are largely ceremonial and representative, defined by the Constitution of Norway. He performs important state functions such as opening the Storting and formally appointing the government based on parliamentary support. He and Queen Sonja have undertaken numerous state visits, strengthening Norway's diplomatic relations with countries like South Africa, China, and members of the European Union. His reign has seen several significant events, including Norway's hosting of the 1994 Winter Olympics in Lillehammer and the national response to the 2011 Norway attacks.

Personal life

In 1968, he married commoner Sonja Haraldsen in the Oslo Cathedral after a long courtship that required approval from the Storting. The couple has two children: Princess Märtha Louise and Crown Prince Haakon. His family resides at the Royal Palace in Oslo and the Bygdøy estate. An avid sportsman, he has represented Norway in sailing at multiple Summer Olympic Games, including the 1964, 1968, and 1972 games, and won medals in world championships. He is also a dedicated patron of numerous cultural and sporting organizations.

Health

In recent years, he has undergone several medical procedures. In 2003, he was treated for bladder cancer and later for aortic stenosis, receiving a new heart valve in 2005. He has also had surgery on his knee and, in 2020, underwent an operation for a torn tendon. These health matters have occasionally led to temporary regencies, with Crown Prince Haakon assuming the monarch's duties during his recoveries. His medical care has been managed by specialists at the Rikshospitalet in Oslo.

Legacy and public perception

He is widely regarded as having successfully modernized the Norwegian monarchy, making it more accessible and in tune with contemporary society. His steadfast presence during national crises, such as the 2011 Norway attacks, has reinforced his role as a symbol of unity. His support for democratic values, environmental causes, and cultural institutions like the Norwegian Broadcasting Corporation and the National Museum of Art, Architecture and Design is well recognized. Polls consistently show strong public support for the monarchy, and his dedication to duty has ensured a stable transition for his heir, Crown Prince Haakon.

Category:Norwegian monarchs Category:1937 births Category:Living people