The Vikings were a group of people who lived in Scandinavia from the 8th to the 11th centuries. They were known for their maritime skills, as they were able to travel great distances by ship. The Vikings also had a strong military tradition, and they were often involved in raids and battles.
The first recorded Viking raid took place in 793, when a group of Vikings attacked the monastery at Lindisfarne, in England. This event marked the beginning of the Viking Age. Over the next few centuries, the Vikings would carry out many more raids on European settlements. In 865, a large force of Vikings invaded England and established the kingdom of York. This kingdom became known as the Danelaw, and it was ruled by Viking law.
In the late 9th century, another group of Vikings set sail for America. These explorers established a settlement in present-day Newfoundland, Canada. However, this settlement did not last long, and it is believed that the Viking settlers soon returned to Europe.
The most famous Viking of all was probably Ragnar Lothbrok. Ragnar was a Danish king who lived in the 9th century. He is said to have led many successful raids on England and France. Ragnar was eventually captured by the English king Aethelwulf and killed in 865.
The history of the Vikings is full of fascinating stories and characters.