New Discoveries Reveal the True Power of the Viking Great Army

New research uncovers the hidden world of the Viking Great Army—explored in the upcoming book, Life in the Viking Great Army.

Viking artifacts from Aldwark, North Yorkshire, amassed by US collector Gary Johnson. Photograph: Daniella Segura

The Viking Great Army, or the "great heathen army" as recorded in the Anglo-Saxon Chronicles, was far more than a ruthless band of warriors ravaging Anglo-Saxon England. Newly uncovered sites and artifacts have revealed a more complex reality: the army was a diverse community of men, women, children, craftworkers, and merchants who transformed English society in ways previously underestimated.

A New Look at the Viking Presence in England

Leading experts from York University, Professors Dawn M. Hadley and Julian D. Richards, have traced the archaeological footprint of these Scandinavian invaders, identifying around 50 new sites associated with the Viking Great Army. By analyzing previously overlooked finds, such as ingots, gaming pieces, dress fittings, and Islamic dirhams, they’ve provided a clearer picture of how the Vikings operated and interacted with Anglo-Saxon England.

H…