Initially farmers and traders, Vikings began exploring further afield due to overpopulation and a desire for wealth. They raided coastal communities, earning a fearsome reputation. Yet, they were also traders, establishing trade routes that connected Northern Europe to the M
iddle East and Asia.
Their social structure was hierarchical, with powerful chieftains leading extended families and clans. Religion played a significant role, with beliefs in Norse gods like Odin, Thor, and Freyja shaping their worldview. This polytheistic faith included rituals, sacrifices, and myths that influenced Viking culture.
Eventually, Viking influence waned due to various factors, including the spread of Christianity, internal conflicts, and consolidation of nation-states. Nevertheless, their legacy endures in language, place names, and archaeological finds, offering insights into their complex society and enduring impact on world history.
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