Vikings: The True and Surprising History of The Vikings

by Patrick Auerbach

The Vikings were a seafaring people from the late eighth to early 11th century who established a name for themselves as traders, explorers and warriors. They discovered the Americas long before Columbus and could be found as far east as the distant reaches of Russia. While these people are often attributed as savages raiding the more civilized nations for treasure and women, the motives and culture of the Viking people are much more diverse. These raiders also facilitated many changes throughout the lands from economics to warfare. Many historians commonly associate the term “Viking” to the Scandinavian term vikingr, a word for “pirate.” However, the term is meant to reference oversea expeditions, and was used as a verb by the Scandinavian people for when the men traditionally took time out of their summers to go “a Viking.” While many would believe these expeditions entailed the raiding of monasteries and cities along the coast, many expeditions were actually with the goal of trade and enlisting as foreign mercenaries. Many modern perceptions of Vikings found their origins through Catholic propaganda. Upon the sacking of multiple Christian facilities and the loss of countless relics and treasures, the Catholic ministry sought to dehumanize them. Until Queen Victoria’s rule of Britain, the Vikings were still portrayed as a violent and barbaric people. During the 19th and 20th centuries, perceptions changed to the point where Vikings were glamorized as noble savages with horned helmets, a proud culture and a feared prowess in battle. Scroll to the top of the page and click Add To Cart to read more about this extraordinary forgotten chapter of history.

Genres: History, Nonfiction

112 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 13, 2016

Reviews

[Vicki · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have heard so many different stories about the Vikings and how they were barbarians and a savage people. After reading this book I see them in a bit of a different light. They were explorers. They did take from villages and they did discover far off shores, but they were not looking for war and anti-Christian as they have been portrayed. Their reasons for robbing churches were a little different and this book makes sense. The picture of the long boats and the long houses were also explained and gave me a new way of looking at their society.

For a short book, there were tons of facts and explanations included. There was not a single bit of space wasted in the book.

A history loving girl like me enjoyed it immensely.

[Julie Barrett · Rating 5 out of 5]

Vikings: The True and Surprising History of The Vikings by Patrick Auerbach
Started watching and Curse of Oak Island and really got involved with learning about the Vikings as they depict a lot of things about them.
Loved the new words I learned and looking them up, women roles, food they grew and items they made and traded.
Liked hearing of the religion, roles they played, items left behind and the history.
All around great book with many resources.
Excerpt of Norse mythology is included.

[David Laflin · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very good book full of information on the Vikings. their history and culture

[Carole J Haley · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great book!

I really enjoyed this book. I really learned a lot and this book helped to clear up some things that aren't true. Onward to the Spartans.

[Bladestryke · Rating 4 out of 5]

It is in need of another go through by a proofreader but the information provided was interesting. A good start for anyone interested in Viking history.