The Vikings in England
The Viking Age is one of the longest and most colorful parts of the history
of Europe. Beginning from the 8th century, the Vikings rein spread to over a
period of 300 years when Scandinavian seafarers went to various parts of Europe,
Asia and Africa to engage in raids, warfare, trading and exploration.
There is a general misconception about Vikings being tall, wild and dirty savages,
who raided, pillaged and settled on an area. From 793 A.D., these Scandinavian
warriors left their homeland to search for new lands to settle in. Thus begins
the long saga of Vikings across Europe and throughout Asia and Africa.
Among the many 'activities' that Vikings engaged in when they began their journey
across Europe was raiding monasteries. In 793 A.D., the Viking raiders attacked
a monastery where they held monks in captivity. From that very first raid, they
conducted other small invasions across the English shores.
One of the last raids conducted by the Vikings was in a monastery located in
River Tune, England. Here, they were met with resistance as their leaders and
members were killed, to the surprise of the Vikings.
The attack in Jarrow was their last raid in England, and from here they moved
on to its neighboring lands. Despite the long running and multitude invasions
of the Scandinavian warriors all throughout England during the Viking Age, they
left a tangible influence over major parts of England.
Take a look at the impact of the Viking Age on England:
·Language
When the Scandinavian warriors left England, the English language adopted several
entries on the dictionary of words with Scandinavian origin. These words later
on melded with the native dialect. Until now, names of streets and places, as
well as everyday words of Scandinavian origin are still being used in the English
language.
·Culture and People
The Viking settlers and raiders from Scandinavia did more than just contribute
to an exciting and colorful English history during the Viking Age. Until now,
news reports reveal that the Viking blood still literally flows on the veins
of the very people from the United Kingdom. There are many modern influential
people that has Scandinavian ancestry.
·Politics
Aside from language, the political influences and sense of justice reveals a
great similarity to the Vikings who raided and settled over the nation more
than 1,200 years ago. These political beliefs were also being used as basis
of present rules and system of the country.
Original Authors:
Jennifer Tumanda
Edit Update Authors: None
Updated On: 05/12/2006
