Eric III, also known as Eric of Pomerania, was a king who ruled over Denmark, Norway, and Sweden during the early 15th century. He was born around 1381 and became king in 1396, uniting the three kingdoms under the Kalmar Union. His reign was marked by efforts to strengthen the union, but he faced challenges from local nobility and external threats. Despite his initial successes, Eric III's rule became increasingly unpopular, leading to his deposition in 1439. After losing power, he spent his later years in Pomerania, where he continued to influence regional politics until his death in 1459.