When Was the Viking Age?

The Viking Age is a period in history that has been a source of fascination for many people. This era is known for its warriors, explorers, and traders who were feared and revered in equal measure. The Viking Age is generally considered to have started in the late 8th century and ended in the mid-11th century. In this article, we will delve deeper into the Viking Age and explore the events that shaped it.

What Was the Viking Age?

The Viking Age was a period of history that saw the rise of the Scandinavian people, who were known as Vikings. During this time, the Vikings embarked on voyages of exploration, conquest, and trade, which took them to many parts of the world. The Vikings were feared for their ferocity in battle, and they are known to have raided many coastal settlements in Europe.

The Beginning of the Viking Age

The Viking Age is generally considered to have started in the late 8th century. The exact date is not known, but historians believe that it was around 793 AD when the Vikings launched a raid on the monastery at Lindisfarne in England. This raid marked the beginning of a period of Viking expansion and exploration that would last for several centuries.

The Viking Age in Europe

During the Viking Age, the Vikings were known for their raiding and trading activities in Europe. They raided many coastal settlements in England, Scotland, Ireland, and France, and they also established trading posts in these areas. The Vikings also traveled to Russia, where they established the Kievan Rus' state and traded with the Byzantine Empire.

The Viking Age in America

The Vikings are also known to have traveled to North America during the Viking Age. Around the year 1000 AD, a Viking named Leif Erikson is said to have established a settlement in what is now Newfoundland, Canada. This settlement, known as Vinland, was abandoned after a few years, but it is a testament to the Vikings' exploratory spirit.

The End of the Viking Age

The Viking Age is generally considered to have ended in the mid-11th century. The end of the Viking Age was brought about by a combination of factors, including the conversion of the Scandinavian people to Christianity, the decline of the Viking settlements in Greenland, and the defeat of the Vikings by the English at the Battle of Stamford Bridge.

Conclusion

The Viking Age was a period of history that saw the rise of the Scandinavian people and their exploration, conquest, and trade activities. The Vikings are known for their raiding and trading activities in Europe, as well as their travels to North America. The Viking Age ended in the mid-11th century, but its legacy lives on today.