: Following the death of King Håkon Sverresson, his infant son and heir, Håkon Håkonsson , became a target for the rival Bagler faction.
The heroic journey is commemorated today through world-renowned cross-country ski races. Birkebeinerne
: The rescue was successful, and Håkon Håkonsson grew up to become the king who finally united Norway after 1,000 years of civil war, leading the country into its medieval "Golden Age". Modern Legacy: The Birkebeiner Races : Following the death of King Håkon Sverresson,