Empire 51. Vikings: Slavs to Slaves
51 snips
May 16, 2023 
Cat Jarman, an archaeologist and author specializing in Viking history, joins the discussion. They unravel the fascinating story behind a red bead linking Viking communities to India and explore the unexpected depth of the Viking slave trade. The conversation dives into grim burial rituals and how archaeological methods reshape our understanding of Viking society, particularly the roles of women and enslaved individuals. Jarman also highlights the legacy of Ood the Deep-Minded, showcasing resilience in a harsh world.
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Repton's Viking Charnel
- William Durhampol's archaeological dig in Repton's Vicar's Garden unearthed a charnel of Viking warriors.
- A seemingly insignificant Cornelian bead found at the site later revealed a surprising connection to India.
The Bead's Significance
- The bead, overlooked initially, originated from Gujarat, India, highlighting extensive trade routes.
- This discovery underscored the Vikings' engagement in slavery, a key driver of their economic activity.
Advanced Bone Analysis
- Modern archaeological methods analyze bones to reveal details about diet, origins, and even life changes.
- These techniques provide insights into past populations' habits and movements.
