Norway's King Harald V Dies at 89
King Harald V of Norway died Friday at age 89. He died at Oslo University Hospital after health problems.
He was Europe's oldest reigning monarch. He was also Norway's longest serving king.
Leaders announced a period of national mourning. Thousands of Norwegians gathered outside the royal palace.
Royals, politicians and citizens joined the tributes. Crown Prince Haakon age 53 became King Haakon VIII right away.
Haakon had served as regent during his father's absences. He had also taken on more royal duties recently.
He adopted the family motto "All for Norway." The motto dates back to his great-grandfather. King Haakon VIII thanked Norway's government and people.
He thanked them for support during the mourning period. Tributes poured in from across Europe after Harald's death.
Key Terms 3
- regent Someone who rules for a king or queen who cannot.
- reigning monarch A king or queen currently ruling a country.
- national mourning An official period when a country grieves together.