Early Viking Age

Definition

The Early Viking Age refers to the initial phase of the Viking Age, typically dated from around 793 to 850 AD, characterized by the first recorded Viking raids and the establishment of trade routes. This period marks the beginning of Norse seafaring expansion, where Vikings ventured beyond their homelands in Scandinavia to explore, trade, and raid across Europe, especially targeting coastal monasteries and settlements.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Early Viking Age began with the notorious raid on Lindisfarne in 793 AD, which shocked Christian Europe and highlighted the Viking threat.
2. During this period, Vikings primarily targeted monasteries because they were wealthy and poorly defended, making them easy targets for raiding.
3. This era saw the Vikings developing advanced shipbuilding techniques, leading to the creation of longships that enabled them to travel vast distances.
4. The Viking expansion during this time was not solely military; it also involved significant trade and cultural exchange with other regions.
5. The establishment of temporary settlements along trade routes laid the groundwork for more permanent Viking influences in places like England and Ireland.

Review Questions

• What were some key events that marked the beginning of the Early Viking Age and how did they impact European societies?
  • The Early Viking Age is often marked by the raid on Lindisfarne in 793 AD, which served as a wake-up call for European societies regarding Viking raids. This event initiated a series of attacks on monasteries and coastal settlements throughout Europe. The shock of these raids led to increased fortification of towns and changes in military tactics among local populations as they sought to protect themselves from further incursions.
• Analyze how Viking shipbuilding innovations contributed to their expansion during the Early Viking Age.
  • Viking shipbuilding innovations, particularly the development of longships, played a crucial role in their expansion during the Early Viking Age. These ships were designed for speed and versatility, allowing Vikings to navigate both open seas and shallow rivers. This capability enabled them to launch surprise raids across a wide range of territories, facilitating not only military conquest but also trade and exploration into areas previously inaccessible.
• Evaluate the long-term effects of the Early Viking Age on European culture and trade networks.
  • The Early Viking Age had profound long-term effects on European culture and trade networks. The initial raids led to increased conflict but also resulted in cultural exchanges as Vikings settled in various regions. Over time, this led to the integration of Norse customs and practices into local cultures. The establishment of trade routes facilitated economic connections between Scandinavia and other parts of Europe, contributing to the development of a more interconnected medieval economy that shaped future political landscapes.

Related terms

Danelaw: The area of England that was under Danish law and control during the Viking Age, established as a result of Viking invasions and settlements.

Longship: A type of ship developed by the Vikings, known for its speed, agility, and ability to navigate both open sea and shallow rivers, crucial for their raids and exploration.

Lindisfarne: An island off the northeast coast of England where a significant Viking raid occurred in 793 AD, marking the start of the Viking Age in historical records.