Vikings for kids big and small is a popular time in world history!
The Vikings, who were powerful in North Europe from AD 793 until 1066, have captured our imagination for many reasons. They are known for being crazed warriors, who attacked and raided villages in new countries leaving no survivors.
While this is true in part, the Vikings were so much more than this. They were skilled craftsmen, as well being peaceful farmers who lived quietly in their new home. They were also brave explorers who traded goods across Europe and beyond.
They are known for being crazed warriors, who attacked and raided villages in new countries leaving no survivors.
The Vikings travelled in distinctive longships made from curved wood that was overlapped and held together with iron rivets, which are like thick nails.
Vikings were fierce warriors. They believed their soul would go to Valhalla if they died in battle, which was a great honour.
The Vikings were mostly pagans, which means they worshipped several gods and goddesses. Many of their beliefs were linked to nature.
There are many words in the English language that come from Old Norse. When a burglar searches a house, they ransack it; ‘ransack’ is a Viking word.