-
Why did the "Swedish crusades" take place in Finland and Russia?
At the end of the Viking Age, religious crusading took place not only in West Asia but also in the Arctic region, in what is now Finland and Russia. We look at why the Kingdom of Sweden, a once pagan nation, undertook these bloody military campaigns in the name of the Catholic Church.1 year ago -
When did the Viking Age end?
The Viking Age is said to have ended with Harald Hardrada on a battlefield in northern England in 1066. Yet, the Vikings did not disappear overnight. We delve into some other options for when the Age of Vikings truly ceased.2 years ago -
The saga of Svein Asleifarson: Orkney's legendary Viking
Long before Netflix, YouTube, and TikTok, people in Viking societies told tall tales for entertainment. One of the best is the saga of Svein Asleifarson, a colorful and explosive character who was as feared for his temper as his formidable martial skills.2 years ago -
From royal consort to kingmaker: The story of Ingrid Ragnvaldsdotter
Sadly, the history of medieval Scandinavia, predominantly written by men, largely overlooks the contributions of women. However, one lady looms large over the end of the Viking Age; she found herself entrenched in the royal houses of Denmark, Norway, and Sweden.2 years ago -
Who was Magnus Barefoot, the ambitious King of Norway?
The traditional historical view is that the Viking Age died on the battlefield of Stamford Bridge when Harald Hardrada was cut down. The last significant Viking overseas invasion had been thwarted, and a new era of medieval Scandinavian history began.2 years ago -
Who was Sverre Sigurdsson, the excommunicated King who reformed Medieval Norway?
Historians have labeled him as one of the most consequential and important kings in Norwegian history. However, ask most Norwegians today, and they’ll struggle to tell you much about King Sverre Sigurdsson.3 years ago -
Which event ended the Viking era?
The exact ending of the "Viking Age" (c. 793 – 1066 CE) is just one of the many current controversies historians love arguing about.3 years ago -
Why did the Vikings stop raiding?
The history of the so-called "Viking Age" is neatly bookended by a raid on a British monastery at the beginning and the victory of a Norman conqueror on an English battlefield at the other end. Or is it?3 years ago
