Vikings, norse culture

When was the Viking Age?

793–1066 AD — Begins with raid on Lindisfarne, ends with Battle of Stamford Bridge.

What event marked the start of the Viking Age?

793 AD – Viking raid on the monastery at Lindisfarne, England.

What event ended the Viking Age?

1066 AD – Defeat of Norwegian King Harald Hardrada at Battle of Stamford Bridge by Harold Godwinson.

When did Vikings settle Iceland?

Around 870 AD.

Who was Leif Erikson?

Norse explorer; son of Erik the Red; reached North America (Vinland) around 1000 AD.

What was a “thing” in Norse society?

A governing assembly where free men made laws and settled disputes.

What religion did the Vikings follow?

Norse paganism – belief in gods like Odin, Thor, and Freyja.

What is Valhalla?

Hall of the slain warriors; ruled by Odin; where brave warriors go after death.

What were Viking longships used for?

Fast, versatile ships used for raiding, trading, exploration, and warfare.

What was the Norse alphabet?

Runes – used for inscriptions, magic, and communication.

Where did the Vikings raid or settle?

England, Ireland, France, Russia, Iceland, Greenland, Sicily, and parts of the Middle East.

What was the Danelaw?

Area of eastern England under Viking control in the 9th–11th centuries.

What is Vinland?

Norse name for part of North America (likely Newfoundland); explored by Leif Erikson.

What was the significance of the Varangians?

Vikings who served as elite guards for Byzantine emperors and explored Eastern Europe.