King Cnut, also known as Cnut the Great, was a Viking king who ruled over England, Denmark, Norway, and parts of what is now Sweden in the early 11th century. He was born around 995 and became king of England in 1016 after a series of battles. Cnut is known for uniting these territories and establishing a North Sea empire. Cnut's reign is often remembered for his efforts to strengthen the monarchy and improve relations with the Anglo-Saxon nobility. He implemented laws and promoted Christianity, which helped stabilize his rule. Cnut died in 1035, leaving a legacy as a powerful and effective ruler.