In the book, Vikings, Oliver provides an overview of the peoples of Scandinavia who explored a varity of countries including parts of what is now Russia and other areas of Europe including what became Normandy in northern France; the islands of Scotland, particularly the Orkneys and Shetland Islands; Greenland, Iceland and Newfoundland as well as England.
Initially Viking raids on the English resulted in looting isolated monastries such as Lindisfarne with the Vikings returning to their homeland with considerable treasure. Over time however people from Denmark, Sweeden and Norway looked for additional land in which to settle. Observing their Christian neighbours many Viking leaders decided that converting to Christianity improved trading opportunities with their neighbours and also reduced the possibility of other countries invading their territory.
From 865 Vikings invaded parts of England to settle resulting in numerous battles with the Anglo Saxons. The final conflict was the Battle of Stamford Bridge in 1066 resulting in victory for the English army of Harold Godwinson. However Harold Godwinson was defeated by the Norman army led by William the Conqueror at the Battle of Hastings in October 1066.
This book therfore provides an overview of European and British history in the age of the Vikings from 793 to 1263. Unfortunately there are few Viking records from the time of Viking expansion so much of the story has been lost, however information is available from records made in other countries as well as archaeological finds. A useful chronology is provided plus a list of principal Viking characters mentioned throughout the book. There is also a bibliography and index.
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