Cnut's sons were the offspring of King Cnut the Great, who ruled over England, Denmark, Norway, and parts of what is now Sweden in the early 11th century. His most notable sons were Harold Harefoot and Harthacnut. After Cnut's death in 1035, a power struggle ensued between them for control of the English throne. Harold Harefoot became king of England in 1035, ruling until his death in 1040. Following Harold's reign, Harthacnut ascended to the throne, ruling until 1042. Their rivalry and the subsequent conflicts shaped the political landscape of England during this period.