Canute II, also known as Cnut the Great, was a Norse king who ruled over a North Sea empire in the early 11th century. He was born around 995 and became king of England in 1016, later also ruling Denmark and parts of Norway. His reign is noted for its political stability and efforts to integrate the Anglo-Saxon and Viking cultures. Cnut was a skilled leader who implemented effective governance and promoted Christianity. He is often remembered for his legendary demonstration of humility, where he attempted to show his courtiers that even a king could not command the tides. His legacy includes the strengthening of the monarchy and the establishment of a unified North Sea realm.