Description

Born the son of Harold Fairhair and a member of the Fairhair dynasty, Eric became King of Norway from 931-933 and King of North Umbria on two occasions, 947-948 and 952-954.
At twelve years of age, Eric became a Viking raider, sailing with the ships plundering Europe. On three occasions, he was able to demonstrate his prodigious strength and valor at an early age. His four years of international piracy harrying the coasts of the Baltic, Denmark, Frisia, and Germany shaped a prodigious and violent warrior.
In his older years, Eric fought with his brothers for the crown of Norway. His years of ruling Norway were deemed harsh and despotic. With his ouster from Norway, he fled to Britain.
His battles and conquest of British North Umbria resulted in his kingship in 947 and again in 952. Eric died in 954 in either Britain or Spain, no doubt with his axe in hand.