Sturlungar

The Sturlungar were a powerful Icelandic family clan that played a dominant role in Iceland during the Sturlung Era, a period of intense civil strife and conflict in the 13th century. The clan's influence stemmed from the wealth and authority of its leaders, most notably Sturla Sighvatsson, who was a prominent figure in the mid-13th century. The Sturlungar were one of several such family groups vying for power in a decentralized Iceland, which lacked a strong central government. Their activities, along with those of rival clans like the Ásbirningar and Haukdælir, led to widespread feuds, battles, and political maneuvering. The era's turmoil was so significant that it is named after this clan. The Sturlungar's ambitions and conflicts ultimately contributed to the end of Iceland's period of independence. Facing escalating violence and internal division, the Icelandic chieftains eventually sought external intervention. This led to Iceland submitting to Norwegian rule in 1262-1264, marking the end of the Sturlung Era and the beginning of Iceland's centuries-long union with Norway. The "Sturlunga Saga," a historical work composed in the 14th century, chronicles the events of this tumultuous period and the central role of the Sturlungar family.