The Vikings were one of the most feared and respected cultures in medieval Europe. They were a society of warriors, skilled shipbuilders and maritime masters who seemed to materialize out of thin air and lay waste to entire cities. Their warrior kings ravaged Great Britain and beyond, imposing their will and leaving a trail of destruction leaving anyone who survived traumatized and mumbling to themselves about apocalypse and the wrath of god. But one warrior king rose above them all to become the first and only king of England, Norway, and Denmark. And no it’s not Ragnar Lothbrok.

Today, we’ll explore the life and conquests of Canute the Great, the most powerful Viking who ever lived. Enjoy!