Varangians

vikings · medieval · russia · warriors

Eastern explorers. Varangians were mostly Swedish Vikings who sailed down Russian rivers instead of attacking Western Europe like other Vikings did. They discovered a whole new world to trade with and settle in.

Built a new nation. These Swedish settlers founded Kievan Rus', the ancient state that became modern Russia, Ukraine, and Belarus. Without the Varangians, Eastern Europe might look completely different today.

Emperor's bodyguards. Varangians became the elite Varangian Guard for the Byzantine emperors in Constantinople, protecting the most powerful ruler in the medieval world. These fierce Norse warriors were so famous that emperors trusted them above everyone else.

Traders and settlers. They didn't just raid and plunder like stereotypical Vikings. Varangians built trading posts, married local people, and created permanent communities along the great Russian rivers.

Brave fighters. Varangians were known for their fearlessness in battle and their incredible loyalty to whoever hired them, whether that was a Russian prince or a Byzantine emperor.