New research published in the journal Science Advances has shed light on the extent of the Vikings’ global trade networks. The study, conducted by researchers from the University of Copenhagen, reveals that the Vikings were “extremely well-travelled” and engaged in an extensive ivory trade network that spanned at least three continents.
According to the study, the sea-faring Vikings travelled over 6,000km to hunt for walruses in the Arctic as part of their ivory trade. DNA analysis of walrus remains revealed that the ivory was brought to Europe from Greenland and traded as far as the Middle East and Canada, highlighting the Vikings’ remarkable ability to navigate and survive harsh conditions.
The Vikings’ ivory trade network not only included Europe and the Middle East but also likely extended to East Asia, the researchers found. The Vikings sourced walrus ivory from the Arctic to compensate for the disrupted elephant ivory trade via the Middle East during the Crusades.
Through the study of fragments of walrus skulls from Viking settlements in Europe, Greenland, and Canada, scientists constructed a genetic map of the origins of Arctic walrus populations during the Viking era. The analysis suggested that the Greenland Norse obtained ivory from High Arctic waters, particularly the North Water Polynya, and potentially from the interior Canadian Arctic.
The findings also indicated that the Vikings had more trade interactions with indigenous Arctic populations such as the Thule and Dorset cultures than previously assumed. This suggests a more extensive network of trade and cultural exchange than previously believed.
Dr Morten Tange Olsen, one of the study co-authors, emphasised the Vikings’ significant trading activities, stating that they had a network that covered a larger area than previously thought. The study underscores the Vikings’ adaptability and resourcefulness in establishing a global trade network that extended beyond the borders of Europe.
This new research adds to our understanding of the Vikings’ seafaring prowess and their influence on global trade during ancient times. It highlights the complexity and interconnectedness of trade routes that existed centuries ago and showcases the Vikings as early pioneers of long-distance trade and cultural exchange.