But this image of Viking hordes embarking on sea voyages with the sole purpose of pillaging is changing with new discoveries that reveal extensive trade networks spanning Europe and beyond. Experts ...

Many Viking-era Scandinavians likely showed off their badass scars from raiding and pillaging, but they were probably kvetching more about an ear infection or gum disease. That’s according to ...

The Viking era lasted nearly three centuries ... sought to enrich themselves through trade rather than simply through pillaging. The Swedish trading hub of Birka was established in the 8th ...

Or alternatively, you could just get your food from raiding and pillaging. If there was no wind, the Viking boats could be powered by oars. But they really came into their own as sailing ships.

Let me explain. When I think of Vikings, the first thing that comes to mind is war and pillaging—and I’ll get to that. But the second thing is trading and longboats. Yeah, it’s not as cool, but the ...