Vikings Raiders from the Sea [Paperback]

From the 9th to the 11th century, Viking ships landed on almost every shore in the Western world. Viking ravages united the Spanish kingdoms and stopped Charlemagne and the Franks' advance in Europe. Wherever Viking ships roamed, enormous suffering followed in their wake, but the encounter between cultures changed both European and Nordic societies.Employing sail technology and using unpredictable strategies, the Vikings could strike suddenly, attack with great force, then withdraw with stolen goods or captives. Viking society was highly militarized, honor was everything and losing ones reputation was worse than death. Offending another mans honor could only be resolved through combat or blood revenge.This short history of the Vikings discusses how they raided across Europe even reaching America, discussing their ships, weapons and armor, and unique way of life.Viking raiders were feared across Europe for centuries. This short introduction to the world of the Vikings looks at their way of life and why their raids were so successful.The Casemate Short History Series presents readable and entertaining introductions to history and military history topics.I enjoyed reading this book, there was a lot I didnt know about Vikings, including their faith system, which contrary to popular belief, doesnt just include Valhalla...a well-written, interesting book.This little 'Casemate Short History' was written by a very enthusiastic historian who has focused for years on Viking and medieval European history. He knows it intimately and explains it well.IntroductionTimelineChapter 1: Viking SocietyChapter 2: A Culture of CombatChapter 3: Religion, Myth and CultChapter 4: Plunder, Explorations and SettlementsChapter 5: Expansion in the North and WestChapter 6: The Onslaught in EnglandSourcesIndex