1. Vikings!

2. The Vikings Homelands: Norway, Sweden & Denmark Ruled by Kings & Earls
Vikings traditionally worshipped many gods including: Odin & Thor (polytheistic).
To die in battle meant acceptance into Valhalla.
Most converted to Christianity by 1066 CE.

3. Skilled in sailing and trading. Used a sun compass to navigate
Skilled in sailing and trading. . Used a sun compass to navigate. Not just raiders. Also explorers and settlers.
Traveled in Longships (deckles) – about 150 miles/day over seas or up shallow rivers, propelled by long oars.
Could cross the Atlantic – in a Knarr 54’ long, men, 75 miles per day

5. To go “a-viking” means to go on a raid for riches.
Used surprise attacks & speedy retreats; using a shield wall tactic for defense and axes, lances or long swords to attack villages, monasteries, or towns. Berserkers:
Monastery at Lindisfarne, England

6. Effects Founded the city of Dublin (Ireland) in 795 as a trading port.
Founded the city of Kiev (Russia) where they established trade with the Byzantine Empire & descendants married into the Byzantine royal family.

7. Viking raids isolated communities and weakened monarchs.
Trade declined. Economies collapsed.
Nobles and local officials took over local defense. New political and social system brought stability to western Europe (feudalism).

11. Vikings!