Norway's King Harald Dies Aged 89
BBC News reports that Norway's King Harald V passed away at the age of 89 after being hospitalized for treatment of a rare blood condition. He died peacefully at 06:35 local time (04:35 GMT) on Friday at the national hospital in Oslo.
In the days leading up to his death, members of the royal family visited him, and crowds laid flowers at the palace. Harald was Norway's first king born in Norway since the 14th century, and will be succeeded by his son, Haakon.
Known for modernizing the monarchy, breaking with tradition by marrying a commoner, and serving as a unifying figure during challenging times, King Harald will be remembered as a popular and respected figure. He was affectionately known as the "People's king" - a title also used by his father, King Olav V.
During his reign, the Norwegian monarchy became more transparent and egalitarian, according to historians. He faced health challenges and scandal during his later years, but remained close to the people, described as "one of us."
Harald was born on February 21, 1937, in Oslo during World War II. His mother fled with her children to Sweden and then the US, returning to Norway at war's end. He married Sonja Haraldsen, a commoner, after obtaining his father's consent, against his initial wishes.
He is survived by his wife of almost 58 years, Queen Sonja, their daughter Princess Märtha Louise, son King Haakon, and six grandchildren.