January 19
Canute IV of Denmark
Canute IV was king of Denmark from about 1080 until his death in 1086. He is the Danish king honored as Saint Canute, distinct from the earlier ruler Canute the Great.
The king behind the name
Canute IV was a son of Sweyn II and succeeded his brother Harold as king. The Catholic Encyclopedia describes his support for the Church and his plans for an expedition to England. Discontent over taxation contributed to a revolt during his reign. In 1086 he took refuge on Funen, where he was killed in the church of Saint Alban together with his brother Benedict and companions.
Calendar and identity
The historical encyclopedia gives January 19 as his feast and July 10 as the date of his death and another commemoration. Our traditional calendar retains January 19. The original link led to Canute the Great, a different eleventh-century monarch; the reference below concerns Canute IV specifically.
Sources and references
Original explanation by Bible Daybook, prepared with AI assistance. References checked September 10, 2026; theological review pending.
Patronage
No verified patronage is listed for this record.
Era: 11th century