What weapons did the Vikings have?
- Viking warriors fought using long swords aԻ axes. A good sword was handed down from father to son.
- Vikings did not wear much armour. Most had a round wooden shield for protection.
- They believed that Odin, the god of war protected them and that they didn't need armour.
- Vikings formed a ٳ-ɲ’ where they locked together side-by-side, shields in front, and pushed their enemy back.
What were Viking ships like?
The Vikings built fast ‘dDz-’ and ‘long ships’ for raiding aԻ war.
They also had slower passenger and cargo ships called ‘kԴǰ’. They built smaller boats too, for fishing or short trips.
A ship carried everything needed at sea – drinking water, dried meat to eat, tools, weapons, and furs to keep warm.
- Viking long ships could sail in Ƿ wٱ so they could travel up rivers as well as across the sea.
- In a raid, a ship could be hauled up on a beach.
- The Vikings could jump out and start fighting, and then make a quick getaway if they were chased.
What was the last Viking battle?
- The Battle of Stamford Bridge in 1066 was the last major Viking battle in England.
- It was between King Harald of Norway and Tostig and King Harold of England.
- King Harold won the battle.
Activities
Activity 1: Viking weapons
Click on the labels below to find out more about a Viking warrior’s weapons and armour.
Activity 2: Viking long ships
Click on the labels below to find out more about the parts of the a Viking long ship.
Activity 3: Quiz – Viking battles
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