Olaf II of the Isle of Man

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King Olaf II of the Isle of Man, known as Olave in some texts, was the older brother of his predecessor, King Ragnald.

Olav's father was Gudrod V and mother Findguala from Ireland.

His younger brother Ragnald IV usurped his succession to the throne and it was only after years of campaigning against his brother's rule that Olaf killed him and took the throne in the year 1229. On the other hand, sources maintain that Findguala was his father's third and last wife, which would presumably make Olav as the younger brother. He however was the intended successor by his father.

He was then driven out again by Alan, Lord of Galloway and forced to flee to Norway, where he sought and received the assistance of Haakon IV of Norway, who gave him a small fleet. Olaf traveled next to Orkney, where he received a few more troops to compliment his own. With this force he first invaded Man and recaptured the island, then sent a few troops to Rothesay Castle, which they captured by hacking at the walls with their axes.

Olaf died in the year 1237 at Peel Castle. He was succeeded by his son, who became King Harald. Later, Olav's younger son became king Magnus II.


Preceded by:
Ragnald
King of the Isle of Man
1229–1237
Succeeded by:
Harald