The Vikings

The Vikings made a great contribution to world exploration because:

• They established trade routes across Europe and Asia.

• They discovered America before Columbus.

• They invented the compass.

• They built the first ocean-going ships.

What helped make the Vikings into great explorers?

• The Vikings were the first group of people to use the position of the Stars to guide their voyage.

• The Vikings developed the world's first outboard World motors and used them to power their longboats.

• The advanced construction of the Viking longboats helped them to travel farther.

• The Vikings gained extensive knowledge about travel from countries they conquered.

The Vikings eventually decided to travel to the West after trading in Europe because:

• They were seeking new trade routes.

• They wanted to escape harsh European winters.

• They were invited by Western tribes.

• They were following migratory animals.

What countries make up Scandinavia?

• England, Ireland and France

• Ghana Mali and Songhai

• Finland Russia and Denmark

• Norway, Sweden, and Denmark

How do we know that the Vikings came here before Columbus?

• They left graffiti that says, "Vikings Rule!"

• They created a city called Viking Land

• They built many schools and churches

• There are very old homes in Canada that are identical to those made in Europe at that time.