You're Dead to Me cover image

You're Dead to Me

Leif Erikson

Sep 6, 2024
Join Dr. Eleanor Barraclough, a Viking history expert from Bath Spa University, and comedian Kiell Smith-Bynoe for a delightful dive into the legendary Leif Erikson. They explore whether Erikson truly set foot in the Americas long before Columbus, unraveling the historical myths surrounding him. The discussion highlights Erikson's fierce sister Freydis and her complex relationships with Indigenous peoples. They also critique the Kensington stone hoax and showcase vibrant archaeological finds that illuminate Viking life in North America.
55:40

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Leif Erikson emerged as a pivotal figure in Viking exploration, credited with possibly being the first European in North America around 1000 AD.
  • The podcast highlights the significance of Norse sagas, which provide fragmented insights into Erikson's life and the Viking Age's complexities.

Deep dives

Leif Erikson's Potential North American Voyage

Leif Erikson is often credited as one of the first Europeans to explore North America, likely arriving around the year 1000. He is highlighted in two main sagas known as the Vinland sagas, which recount his discoveries of lands west of Greenland. Erikson's journey may have been facilitated by a merchant who accidentally drifted to new lands, sparking interest in exploration. The sagas suggest that the Norse encountered various terrains, leading them to names such as Vinland, suggesting a rich, fertile area with wild grapes.

Get the Snipd
podcast app

Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
App store bannerPlay store banner

AI-powered
podcast player

Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features

Discover
highlights

Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode

Save any
moment

Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways

Share
& Export

Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more

AI-powered
podcast player

Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features

Discover
highlights

Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode