Viking (Scandinavian) warriors Early Middle Ages

The conquests, often accompanied by bloodshed and atrocities, were linked to a system of inheritance of power. Under this system, family heirlooms passed to the eldest son upon the death of the father, forcing younger sons to find other ways to gain wealth, respect and social position. The first expeditions to Britain began in 793, when Vikings landed on the island of Lindisfarne and sacked a monastery in what is considered the first invasion in history. These events began the Vikings' reputation for fear and terror.