East of Sweden:

Norse Ambitions in Eastern Europe and Beyond During the Medieval Period (Part 1)

When the Norse exploded out of the stygian Scandinavian woods in the 8th century many sought plunder in the comparatively rich lands of England & France. These lands were ideal since undefended monasteries and prosperous towns sat on the coast or the riverine systems that drained into the North Sea. From these “smash & grab” operations and later settlem…