Ancient Cultures: The Vikings and Celts of Europe
The Vikings: Norse Seafarers and Warriors (793–1066)
The Vikings were Norse people who originated from Scandinavia (modern-day Denmark, Norway, and Sweden). They were renowned seafarers and warriors whose influence spanned from the 8th to the 14th centuries.
Major Viking Tribes
The three most important tribes were:
- Danes: Known primarily for their raids and extensive settlements in the Danelaw region of England.
- Norwegians: Focused on exploration, raiding, and settling in the British Isles and Iceland.
European Age of Discovery: Expeditions, Technology, and New States
At the beginning of the 15th century, Europeans knew more about Europe. The existence of India, China, and other Eastern lands was confirmed by Marco Polo’s journeys.
Reasons for the Age of Discovery
European countries needed to find new trade routes. This search was facilitated by a number of technical advances:
Technological Advances in Navigation
- Portulan Charts: Detailed navigational maps were developed.
- Navigational Instruments: Key instruments like the compass, astrolabe, and quadrant were improved
The Medieval Kingdoms of the Iberian Peninsula: Castile, Aragón, and Al-Andalus
The Christian Kingdoms of the North
The Kingdom of Asturias and León
The Kingdom of Asturias began when Pelayo defeated the Muslims in the Battle of Covadonga in 722. This event was later considered the start of the Christian Reconquest of Al-Andalus. Under Pelayo’s successors, Oviedo became the capital. Alfonso III (866–910) advanced the territory significantly due to conflicts within the Emirate of Córdoba. In the 10th century, the capital moved to León, establishing the Kingdom of León.
Read MoreThe Bermuda Triangle: Unraveling the Mystery of Vanishing Ships and Planes
The Bermuda Triangle: Unraveling the Mystery
Today, we embark on a journey into one of the most captivating mysteries that has fascinated both scientists and the general public for decades: the Bermuda Triangle. Often called the “Devil’s Triangle,” this vast stretch of ocean has been the site of numerous unexplained disappearances and curious phenomena, capturing our imaginations and fueling countless theories. But what really happens in this mysterious region? Why does it continue to intrigue us
Read MoreThe Rise of Royal Power: Centralization in Castile vs. Pactism in Aragon
The Centralization of the Castilian Monarchy (Late Middle Ages)
The strengthening of the centralist Castilian monarchy occurred during the Late Middle Ages in the peninsular Christian kingdoms, although it was in open conflict with the nobility, who resisted courtly efforts. The nobility retained its powers and privileges of the feudal monarchy, especially economic ones. The royal lands were under the direct control of the King’s Royal Institution.
Legal Foundations and Royal Authority
The Royal
Read MoreEconomic Sectors and Regions of the EU and Spain
Economic Regions in the European Union
The EU states are a diverse group of countries with different economic, social, and demographic characteristics. There are distinct economic regions within the EU.
Key Economic Regions
- Central and Atlantic Europe: Characterized by high levels of income per capita, this region is the main economic driving force in the EU. It has significant energy resources, good communications, and a strong industrial sector.
- The Nordic Region: Features a dynamic economy, high