Norsemen transformed international culture, manufacturing, tech and trade during Viking Era

The notorious reputation of the Vikings spanned thousands of years and across many lands. Bloodthirsty invaders intent on raiding and plundering is what many still imagine when speaking of Vikings. However, far from being simple barbarians, the Vikings are now known to be expert navigators, explorers, colonizers, farmers, settlers, accomplished builders and highly skilled traders.

In fact, according to research news website Phys.org, Vikings, renowned for their military prowess, were also experts in skilled craft and international trade. Indeed, it is theorized that lack of farmland and trade inequities at home, not necessarily piracy, is what drove many to seek out new opportunities in other lands.

During the Viking Age (793 AD to 1066 AD), Europe was undergoing transformation. The Anglo-Saxons, Franks, Frisians and Scandinavians were all contributing to technological advancements. However, with their rapid and far-reaching exploration of the day, Vikings were vital to the widespread innovation boom.