Olav V Of Norway

Olav V, born Prince Alexander of Denmark, was born on July 2, 1903, at Sandringham House in England. He was the only child of Prince Carl of Denmark and Princess Maud of Wales. His father later became King Haakon VII of Norway, elected in 1905, which made Olav the heir apparent to the Norwegian throne. Olav's early education was designed to prepare him for future royal duties and included both civilian and military schooling.

He attended the Norwegian Military Academy, graduating in 1924 with the fourth-best score in his class, and later studied jurisprudence and economics for two years at Balliol College, Oxford. Olav also completed military training as a naval cadet on the minelayer Olav Tryggvason during the 1930s, progressing from first lieutenant to colonel by 1936.

In 1929, Olav married his first cousin, Princess Märtha of Sweden. The couple had three children: Ragnhild, Astrid, and Harald. During World War II, Olav served as a respected military leader and an advisor to his father, who was in exile in the United Kingdom following the German invasion of Norway. Olav was appointed Norwegian Chief of Defence in 1944 and played a role in building and leading Norwegian armed forces during the conflict. He received numerous international military honors for his wartime contributions.

Olav succeeded his father as king on September 21, 1957, after King Haakon VII died at age 85. His reign, from 1957 until his death on January 17, 1991, was characterized by his 'People’s King' persona and focus on civic duties. Despite holding a largely ceremonial position, he commanded significant moral authority and was actively involved in public life. Olav was known for engaging in activities such as driving his own car and traveling publicly in traditional attire, emphasizing his connection to the Norwegian people.

During his reign, Olav represented Norway internationally through numerous state visits. His role was constitutionally ceremonial, with real political power exercised by the government, though he was regarded as a unifying figure for the nation.

In 1990, health problems began to affect him, and he suffered a heart attack on January 17, 1991, at the age of 87, while residing at the Royal Lodge Kongsseteren in Oslo. His death marked the end of his 33-year reign. Norwegians mourned publicly, lighting candles outside the Royal Palace, and his funeral was held on January 30, 1991, with thousands lining the streets. He was buried beside his wife, Princess Märtha, in the Royal Mausoleum.

His legacy includes symbols of Norwegian national unity, recognition for his leadership during World War II, and various honors and landmarks named after him, such as regions in Antarctica and locations on Svalbard. Olav V was posthumously recognized as "Norwegian of the Century" in a 2005 poll.