A Brief History of the Vikings

The internet is awash with hundreds if not, thousands of sites regarding the history, lore and spiritual beliefs of the Vikings. We are not historians, nor academics, and don’t claim to be anything but ourselves. However after following the Heathen faith for 20 years and starting a business. We’ve picked up a thing or two in our time that we hope is worth sharing with the rest of our online community. So without further ado, here is a brief history of the Vikings.

Where the Vikings Originated

The Vikings (or Northmen) originated from Scandinavia, covering the kingdoms Denmark, Norway and Sweden. From the late 7th to the late 10th century these seafaring adventurers raided across Europe with impunity. Even further afield into the likes of North Africa, Russia and, most famously the Silk Road into the Middle East. Regardless of modern-day hype, the word Viking isn’t something you are; it’s something you do. The true meaning of Vikingr simply means “pirate” or “to go a pirating”. What they called themselves in this period of history is up for debate. But, for simplicity, we shall refer to them as Vikings.

If we are to believe the Christian scholars of the time, the Vikings were consumed by nothing but greed and “satanic” bloodlust. However, modern historians believe that their ventures were an amalgamation of reasoning. Yes, material wealth played its part. But overcrowding, lack of arable land and the longing for personal renown also played a significant factor in Viking history. One must also remember that these men were farmers, traders, husbands, sons and fathers. Therefore had the same things to deal with as we do today such as supporting the family and keeping a roof over their heads. But, let’s not forget that the rest of Europe was seen as easy pickings due to Christianisation sweeping the known world. In the Viking’s eyes, they were deemed weak and lacking fighting spirit. It isn’t surprising that they couldn’t resist the urge to make a fast buck, not to mention, fight back against the encroachment of their own Pagan gods.

Colonies in Viking History

The colonisation of Iceland, Ireland, Orkney, Faroe, Shetland and The Outer Hebrides goes to show that they had intentions of exploration. These locations acted as staging points for expeditions further afield. In fact, many believe that the Vikings were the first Europeans to make landfall in modern-day America by way of Iceland and Greenland. There are even references that these outposts were semi peaceful with the indigenous people. Not outrightly conquested for the land as we would first believe.

Viking Society

Back home in the North the Viking society was scattered with a vast number of chieftains. There wasn’t a single king unifying all the Norse peoples. Infighting and the inevitable jostle for power no doubt gave purpose to the cruisadors. Hence the desire to travel further in search of riches and wealth.

What is also clear is that there seemed to be a never-ending supply of manpower. Or those willing to follow their chieftains across the seas in search of glory. This, in itself, tells historians a great deal regarding the choices available to them in this period of Viking history. For example, a man could swear allegiance to his chieftain and would obey their orders. In return he would be fed, sheltered and shared in the bounty of raids. We have to keep in mind that going to sea was an expensive venture. Only those with wealth could finance such an expedition.

A man was free to serve the leader he thought worthy or, more to the point, the one who stood the best chance of paying them the most. Sound logic for one putting their life on the line. With many chieftains claiming direct lineage from the gods and goddesses, it appears the average Viking was spoilt for choice.

The Longship

At this time in Viking history there were no unity of warriors. Instead, small well-armed and experienced “warbands” loyal to different paymasters. These tightly knit “warbands” became highly effective at lightning-fast “hit and run” raids (a tactic mostly unused by most of their opposition). Not to mention they had a secret weapon – the longship. With four designs of boat and each with a specific purpose. The longship would propel the Vikings into uncharted territory. According to specialist naval experts the ornately decorated Drakkar was by far the most popular choice for raiding. Utilising its shallow drafts meant they could travel further inland by way of rivers. Just another reason their victims were caught off guard — not to mention terrified — as the carved heads of fierce creatures adorned their bows. No doubt an early vestige of shock and awe.

Critical Landfall and Raiding Sites in Viking History

While some believe the Vikings had visited beforehand, it was in 793 at the monastery of Lindisfarne that got the first proper taste of what was to come. A devastating raid which still resonates in the modern age and is synonymous with the “Viking age”. It has been recorded that the attack was remorseless and unflinching. Carried out by devils from across the sea looting, slaving and murdering. How much of the account is factual or expanded we will never know, but what is certain is that it was a statement of intent. Not to mention the first of many brutal encounters for the generally peaceful locals. So much so, that when news spread across the kingdoms of the seaborn threat, safe walled harbours and water facing defences were constructed. However, it would seem these measures did little to deter the raiders.

Fast forward to 865 and the attacks by the Great Heathen army led by Ivar the Boneless and his brothers (sons of Ragnar Lothbrok). Finally saw the Vikings unify for the first time in Viking history. Their actions would shake the very fabric of England by defeating the Kingdoms of East Anglia and Northumbria. As well as reducing the kingdom of Mercia exponentially. But, despite their vast number (some estimate 500 – 1000 men) and blistering success, the Anglo-Saxon King Alfred managed to thwart their progress. The kingdom of Wessex stood defiant and proved to be a formidable yet bountiful foe.

Christianisation of the Vikings

It was in the year 878 at the battle of Edington that the Vikings were surrounded and finally defeated by way of a siege. They had to settle for a truce, but instead of wiping the invaders out. Alfred decided to demonstrate just what kind of king he was and agreed to a compromise by way of what’s known as the “Danelaw“. In essence, splitting the country in two, the ramifications of which still hold sway in modern parlance as the “North / South” divide. The icing on the cake to Alfred’s victory was to have the leader of the defeated Viking’s, Guthrum (Ivor the Boneless had travelled to Ireland) agree to be baptised. Thus giving the king an inroad to halt any further incursions into the kingdom of Wessex. Cornicles have stated that the usurped Viking did indeed stick to the agreement throughout his lifetime. He even took a Christian name as part of the deal. However it wasn’t going to last beyond his demise as there were others eagerly waiting to try their luck at taking Wessex.

However despite their enthusiasm it wasn’t to be, and the Saxon king proved too fierce an opponent. It is interesting to note that King Alfred, from this point onwards, won countless victories as did his son Edward the Elder. However, the Vikings would return sporadically right up until the year 1042 when a final, lasting peace was agreed. Of course, in the year 1066, the descendants of exiled Vikings returned from across the English Channel. Beginning another chapter in Viking history, but that’s another story.

Conclusion:

It goes without saying that the Vikings left a lasting impression upon Europe, least of all England. Even today, we can see their legacy in place names, surnames, linguistics and lore across the length and breadth of this beautiful land. But many people in the modern age ask if there was more to the Vikings. We already know them to be farmers, explorers and traders but what of their daily lives and spiritual beliefs? Are there still undiscovered archaeological treasures waiting to be discovered? And if so, what could they tell us of this period of history? Your guess is as good as ours, but one thing is for sure, we’re excited to find out.

We would love to hear your thoughts on our brief history of the Vikings or to tell us if you think something is sorely missing from this post. Write and share your comments with us below, and tell us what you think.

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