Eric the Pagan

Eric was a contender for the Swedish kingship in 1066–67. After the death of King Stenkil, he made war on Eric Stenkilsson for the Swedish throne. Both died in the war. The two rivalling Eriks are only known by their first name and from one source (Adam of Bremen). Thus, the idea that he was a pagan candidate, as well as his opponent's parentage, are purely conjectural.

After the contenders were dead, Halsten, son of Stenkil, ascended to the throne, possibly with the help of his rather more strong willed brother Inge I the Elder. The years 1066 to 1088 are very turbulent with a great number of known — and most likely also a great number of unknown — pretenders to the Swedish throne.