Historic Replicas

In a very real sense, Vikings were a precursor to our modern-day version of terrorists. The Vikings rose to power shortly after a major plague outbreak decimated much of Europe’s population. The kingdoms that remained in England, France and much of the rest of Western Europe were small and comparatively weak. They didn’t yet have the major fortifications and embattlements that would protect against an onslaught.

The Viking swords were sharp and formidable, but their real secret to success involved water travel. Their boats featured shallow hulls, allowing them to pass quickly through rivers and far into the interior of England. There they would collect plunder and perform serious acts of violence on peasants and royals alike. In the end, European kingdoms were forced to band together and build better castles for defense.