Thyra: The Forgotten Queen of Denmark

Thyra was a Danish queen who lived during the Viking Age. She was the wife of King Gorm the Old and the mother of King Harald Bluetooth. Thyra is best known for her role in the construction of the Danevirke, a massive fortification that protected Denmark from invasion. She is also credited with introducing Christianity to Denmark.

Early Life

Thyra was born into a noble family in Jutland, Denmark, around 900 AD. Her father was a wealthy landowner and her mother was a daughter of a local chieftain. Thyra received a good education and was well-versed in the arts of war and diplomacy. According to the Jelling Stone, she was also a skilled horsewoman and archer.

Thyra (Forgotten Women of History Book 3)

by Anne R. Bailey

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3602 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	250 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

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Marriage to Gorm the Old

In 935 AD, Thyra married Gorm the Old, the King of Denmark. Gorm was a powerful and ambitious ruler who was determined to unite all of Denmark under his rule. Thyra was a valuable asset to Gorm, as she brought with her a large dowry and a powerful network of allies.

The Danevirke

One of Thyra's most important contributions to Danish history was her role in the construction of the Danevirke. The Danevirke was a massive fortification that stretched across the southern border of Denmark. It was built to protect Denmark from invasion from the south, particularly from the Saxons. The Danevirke was a major undertaking, and it took many years to complete. Thyra is credited with overseeing the construction of the Danevirke and ensuring that it was completed on time and within budget.

of Christianity

Thyra is also credited with introducing Christianity to Denmark. According to the Jelling Stone, Thyra was a Christian and she encouraged her husband, Gorm, to convert to Christianity as well. Gorm was initially reluctant to convert, but he eventually agreed to do so in order to please Thyra. The of Christianity to Denmark was a major event in the country's history, and Thyra played a key role in making it happen.

Harald Bluetooth

Thyra and Gorm had three children, including Harald Bluetooth. Harald Bluetooth was a successful ruler who expanded the borders of Denmark and introduced Christianity to all of the country. He is also credited with the invention of the Bluetooth wireless technology, which is named after him.

Death and Legacy

Thyra died in 958 AD. She was buried in the Jelling Mounds, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Jelling Stone, which was erected by Harald Bluetooth in memory of his parents, describes Thyra as a "good wife" and a "faithful Christian." Thyra's legacy is one of strength and leadership. She was a powerful and influential woman who played a major role in the history of Denmark.

Forgotten Women of History

Thyra is one of many forgotten women of history. She was a powerful and influential woman who made significant contributions to her country, but her story is not well-known. This is a common problem for women in history. Their stories are often overlooked or marginalized, and they are not given the credit they deserve. It is important to remember these women and their stories, so that we can learn from their experiences and be inspired by their example.

Thyra was a remarkable woman who played a major role in the history of Denmark. She was a powerful and influential queen who made significant contributions to her country. Thyra is a role model for women everywhere. She shows us that women can achieve great things, even in the face of adversity.

Thyra (Forgotten Women of History Book 3)

by Anne R. Bailey

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3602 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	250 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE