Location and time: Scandinavia, the early Middle Ages.
History: The Scandinavian nations, previously unknown in the Mediterranean made successful forays into all European countries, the Middle East and North Africa for 3 centuries.
Interesting Facts about the Vikings:
- The word "Viking" means seafarer.
- They actively used ships so first created detailed charts. In maritime terminology about 70% of the Scandinavian names.
- First visited America (east of Canada). There were found Scandinavian cultural objects during excavation.
- The Vikings have declared themselves in 793 year when raided a Christian monastery on Lindisfarne in Britain. Full-conquest began around the 9th century.
- Normandy - a region in the north of France named after the Vikings who got this land from King Charles the Simple.
- The Vikings used nicknames. They could be given for different services, unusual habits and appearance. It is interesting that even the ridiculous nickname could belong to a very authoritative warrior.
- Vikings considered honorable to engage in poetry.
- Axes were the most popular weapon. They were easy to create, universal and good in the fight.
- Vikings not only raided but also used to trade, make alliances and go to mercenaries in other states.
Myths, versions and misconceptions about the Vikings:
- Armor and weapons of the Vikings in popular culture are often far from reality. Horned helmets, bilateral axes and half-naked warriors never existed.
- Famous Bjorn and Ragnar are more likely to have never existed in reality. Just the characters of the Scandinavian legends.
- If Viking survived to old age and had not a chance to die in battle, he ripped stomach, nailed intestine to a tree and ran around until he died. Often mentioned in the sagas but most likely a myth.
- Only warriors could be rowers on Viking ships. No slaves..
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