Vikings were the best pirates for over 300 years, from 800-1070 a.d. Their ships where the very best of the time, with 16 oars a side and a steering oar on the right hand side. A large square sail was put up when there was a good wind. There was also a figurehead on most ships to strike fear into the hearts of enemies.
Viking settlements where found all over the world. They went to every country in Europe, into the Mediterranean, into Russia and on the Black Sea, to Greenland, Iceland, and to the coast of America. But Vikings didn’t just steal for a living. Some Vikings traded with other nations instead of fighting them.
On long sea voyages, Vikings didn’t use a compass, but a sundial to get there bearings. And, when ships where beached on land, they tilted to one side so it was easier to get cargo and animals off ship. The Vikings used gold and silver coins when trading with people so they could buy things they wanted, like a new double-bladed axe. A Viking’s life was a dangerous life, full of mystery and adventure, and was not for the weak-hearted.
Also, in the last 100 years of the Vikings, Christianity was brought to them. After that, they erected tall churches called Stave Churches, which pointed up to the heavens. There are only 10 Stave Churches left in the world, so you might want to make Norway your next vacation spot, or you could go to Walt Disney World at Epcot. They have a replica of a Stave Church.
-Captain Blogbeard
