Vikings were primarily raiders who attacked monasteries for religious treasures.
While some Viking raids on monasteries occurred and are well-documented, they represent only a portion of Viking activity. Archaeological evidence shows Vikings engaged extensively in trade, established settlements, and had complex societies with laws and governance. Most Viking activity involved commerce, farming, and navigation rather than raiding. The raid-focused narrative comes from biased monastic chronicles.
Reception
Sources
- Wikipedia: Viking Age REFERENCE
- National Geographic: Vikings PRIMARY