The mere mention of the word "Vikings" brings images of destruction and violence into anyone's mind. However, contrary to popular perception, the real Vikings were not really what most make them out to be. Unlike the beer-guzzling, helmet-wearing, and axe-wielding people who are depicted as Vikings, the real Vikings actually came from a vibrant and skilled culture. They hailed from Scandinavian countries such as Sweden, Denmark, and Norway, and flourished from the 8^th century to the 11^th century. The Vikings became powerful through a combination of strategy, fighting, and trade.

The Real Vikings and their Contributions

Due to the lack of historical and archaeological information, a lot of myths persist around the Vikings. Their history became very mysterious, and the only people who recorded the exploits of the Vikings to a great extent were from monasteries that had suffered at their hands. The Vikings, who were pagans, have complete disregard for Christianity. As a result, monastic writings "dehumanized" the Vikings as complete barbarians.

The Vikings also created some of the most delicate artistic work of the time. Their style became so popular that it was adapted by the Anglo-Saxons. Even today, it is difficult to distinguish between the two cultures because of the extent of the adaptation. Ultimately, the Vikings were able to rule, not through savage military force, but because they were clever, forward-thinking, and adaptable. They are not the demon as depicted by the early Christians, they are not the heroes as depicted in sagas, and they are not the champions as depicted in Victorian England.

The following resources contain more information about the Vikings:

SCA History of the Viking World - overview of who the Vikings are and how they lived

Behind the Viking Myth - the real truth behind myths, mysteries, and misconceptions

The Real Vikings - Norwegian Vikings and their history

Knowledge Rush: Viking - what you should know about the Viking people

A Part of Swedish History: The Viking Age - the history is Sweden is intertwined with the history of the Vikings

Viking Discoveries

Evidence suggests that dwindling resources and population growth might have driven the Vikings to seek a better life elsewhere. Some Viking men went on long voyages and left their families and wives. They were often gone for years as they sailed to France, England, Italy, and Spain. Their journeys also took them to Asia, Africa, and the Americas. Today, some evidence reveals that Vikings settled in North America. In fact, archaeologists have discovered Viking settlements in Canada.

Myths and Legends of Scandinavian Warriors - what do people today think of the Scandinavian warriors

Guardian: 1000 Years On - there are dangers in using fake Viking swords

Reconstructing the Past - finding the real truth about Scandinavian people

Viking: The Oarsman - how "men rowing in shifts" ruled the world

BBC: The Viking Revival - what being a Viking was all about

Despite modern discoveries, a lot of myths still persist around the Vikings. But the truth is they are neither super humans nor the devil-incarnate. They were simply extraordinary people.