Harald II of Denmark was a king who ruled from 1040 to 1041. He was the son of Cnut the Great and Emma of Normandy. His reign was short, lasting only about a year, and he faced challenges from rival factions within Denmark. After Harald's death, he was succeeded by his half-brother Harthacnut, who was also the king of England. Harald II's rule is often overshadowed by the more prominent figures in Danish history, but he played a role in the ongoing power struggles of the time.