Vikings - Conversion to Christianity

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Conversion to Christianity The Scandinavian raiders and traders came into contact with the Christian Europe, during the migrations of the Viking age. Most Vikings maintained their old faith, even though missionaries pressured them. However, they did not retain their old faith forever and was completely converted to Christianity during the 11th century. The first Frankish missionaries came into Denmark, during the 8th century. The Danish monarchs permitted them to preach within their kingdoms, however in return Denmark became allied with the Carolingian Empire. There were no Danish kings who officially converted to Christianity until the Danish King Harald Bluetooth supposedly observed a miracle. Therefore he adopted Christianity on behalf of his people and the new religion was firmly establi-shed during the 11th century. During the early 10th century, Anglo-Saxon missionaries ventured across the North Sea and established links with King Harald Harfagri of Norway. Håkon, the king’s son was schooled in a Christian school in England, however his early death in 960 prevented any conversion to Christianity. In Norway and Sweden the conversion took place over a longer period. The two religions existed side by side for long time in Denmark, way before Denmark officially converted to Christianity late in the 10th century. We know this this, because archaeologists have found two religious emblems, made at the same time, made in Jutland. One of the emblems is a small Christian crucifix and the other a model of Thor’s hammer. The territories that the Scandinavians had in Britain and to some extent in France, the duality of beliefs continued. Many people thought that the Christian God was just another deity, which could be evoked in the times of spiritual need. The Scandinavian Churches and the influence of Christianity Tremendous changes in culture,

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