THE VIKINGS - DARK AGE PIRATESThe Vikings were the most feared of pirates. From the late 8th century these Scandinavian seafarers attacked not only the British Isles and France, but ventured into the Mediterranean and even across the Atlantic to America, which they called Vine-land.
They used classic pirate tactics speed, terror, and surprise. Finding a suitable river, the Vikings sped deep inland. Ferocious carvings on their boats were an awesome sight to onlookers. As soon as they found a likely target, such as a monastery, they landed, took what they could, and were back in their boats.
The viking longboat was designed for raiding. Her shallow draft let the Vikings row far inland and unload men and horses quickly before defending forces could be mobilized.
The viking longboat was designed for raiding. Her shallow draft let the Vikings row far inland and unload men and horses quickly before defending forces could be mobilized.
