Viking invasion Flashcards
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Who were the Vikings?
Vikings from Norway and Denmark raided the British Isles, France, and Spain.
The term “Viking” originated from the word ‘vik,’ meaning bay, referring to pirates.
Viking Characteristics
Vikings were not only pirates and warriors but also traders and colonists.
The Viking Age spanned from the years 800 to 1150.
Norwegians raided Scotland and Ireland for loot, while Danes attacked England.
Motives for Viking Raids
Vikings aimed to accumulate gold and silver treasures from monasteries for personal wealth and power.
Captives taken during raids could be sold as slaves.
Young sons of noble families saw raiding as a way to earn wealth and explore the world.
Viking Invasions
Vikings invaded various regions, including Scotland, Ireland, and England.
They sought riches, power, and captives through their invasions.
Viking raids were not only for plunder but also for exploration and expansion.
Viking Beliefs
Items found in pagan graves suggest Viking beliefs in an afterlife.
The repurposing of valuable items for burial indicates a belief in the importance of possessions in the afterlife.
Pagan practices and beliefs influenced Viking burial rituals and customs.
Viking Settlement in England
Vikings settled in England to establish power, wealth, and influence.
The strategic location of England made it an attractive target for Viking colonization.
Viking settlements in England led to cultural exchanges and conflicts with the Anglo-Saxons.
The Great Heathen Army
The Great Heathen Army was a large Viking force that invaded England in the 9th century.
The army aimed to conquer and establish control over English territories.
The invasion by the Great Heathen Army significantly impacted the political landscape of England.
Anglo-Saxon Preparedness
Anglo-Saxons could have better prepared for Viking invasions by strengthening defenses.
Improving intelligence gathering and early warning systems could have helped deter Viking attacks.
Building alliances with neighboring kingdoms could have provided additional support against Viking incursions.