The (or Birkebeiners) were a significant political and military faction during the Norwegian Civil War era (1130–1240). Originally a derogatory term for poor rebels who supposedly wore leggings made of birch bark, the name eventually became a symbol of national pride, strength, and endurance. The Legend: The 1206 Rescue
: Following the death of King Håkon Sverresson, his infant son and heir, Håkon Håkonsson , became a target for the rival Bagler faction. Birkebeinerne
: Two of the group's best skiers, Torstein Skevla and Skjervald Skrukka , carried the two-year-old prince across the treacherous, snow-covered mountains from Lillehammer to Trondheim. The (or Birkebeiners) were a significant political and
American Birkebeiner Ski Race Modifications Due to Lack of Snow his infant son and heir
The heroic journey is commemorated today through world-renowned cross-country ski races.