As we can see in the TV series ‘Vikings’, there are lots of remarkable Vikings at that time. Who is the greatest Viking of all time? We can mention some of them, including Erik the Red, Olaf Tryggvason, Leif Eriksson, Cnut the Great, Freydís Eiríksdóttir, Ragnar Lothbrok, Bjorn Ironside, etc.
But the greatest name that we haven’t mentioned there is “Rollo: First ruler of Normandy”. This Viking leader originated in the Danish or Norwegian area. This fierce fighter was also the brother of the famous Viking Ragnar Lothbrok. From the very beginning, he was overshadowed by his brother. He was carefree, wild and intensive at the same time.
Rollo married Princess Gisla who was the daughter of Emperor Charles and started raids in France in the ninth century. Charles, who was the emperor of West Franks, gave him Northman’s land so that he could protect that area from other ruling Viking raiders.
Also See: 12 Famous Vikings from History
Throughout his ruling time, he had to face brutal fights against the attackers to protect his emperor’s area. The most challenging task for him was to protect the Norwegian area from other powerful raiders. In the historical journal, even in the TV series Vikings, you can see the clear impulsive and wild side of Rollo that made him daring to face the enemies and protect the kingdom.
Till his death in 928, Rollo was able to expand the area of his emperor with the help of his son William Longsword. Following all the achievements, Rollo was one of the greatest Vikings of his time and even after. According to the biography of Rollo by Dudo of Saint-Quentin, Rollo was a potential fighter who sailed from the Norway coast in the 12th century.
After his death, his son and the onwards ruled Normandy until 1204. Though they lost the kingdom to the French King Philip Augustus, the entire ruling period by Rollo was prestigious and full of glory.
What do You guys think, Who is the greatest Viking of all time?
You got most of the history correct BUT Rollo was Eagnar’s cousin. The brother misconception was thanks to the show Vikings.
Ha, thanks we constantly review content, I will make a note to the editorial team.