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Leif Erikson

By: History.com Editors

Updated: October 10, 2019 | Original: April 22, 2010

Leif Erikson was the son of Erik the Red, founder of the first European settlement on what is now called Greenland. Born in Iceland around A.D. 970 , Erikson sailed to Norway around A.D. 1000, where King Olaf I converted him to Christianity. 

According to one school of thought, Erikson sailed off course on his way back to Greenland and landed on the North American continent, where he explored a region he called Vinland. He may also have sought out Vinland based on stories of an earlier voyage by an Icelandic trader. After spending the winter in Vinland, Leif sailed back to Greenland, and never returned to North American shores. He is generally believed to be the first European to reach the North American continent, nearly four centuries before Christopher Columbus arrived in 1492.

Leif Erikson’s Early Life and Conversion to Christianity

Leif Erikson (spelling variations include Eiriksson, Erikson or Ericson), known as “Leif the Lucky,” was the second of three sons of the famed Norse explorer Erik the Red , who established a settlement in Greenland after being expelled from Iceland around A.D. 980. The date of Leif Erikson’s birth is uncertain, but he is believed to have grown up in Greenland. 

According to the 13th-century Icelandic Eiriks saga (or “Saga of Erik the Red”), Erikson sailed from Greenland to Norway around 1000. On the way, he was believed to have stopped in the Hebrides, where he had a son, Thorgils, with Thorgunna, daughter of a local chief. In Norway, King Olaf I Tryggvason converted Erikson to Christianity , and a year later sent him back to Greenland with a commission to spread the faith among the settlers there.

Did you know? After Leif Erikson returned to Greenland, his brother Thorvald led another Viking expedition to Vinland, but all future efforts to settle in the region failed due to bitter clashes between the Norsemen and the local Native American population. Thorvald himself died in a skirmish somewhere north of the Viking base.

Erikson’s Voyage to Vinland

Historical accounts differ on the subsequent events. According to the Eiriks saga, Erikson sailed off course on his return to Greenland and landed in North America . He called the region where he landed Vinland after the wild grapes that grew in abundance there and the general fertility of the land. 

Another Icelandic saga, the Groenlendinga saga (or “Saga of the Greenlanders”), which scholars consider more reliable that the Eiriks saga, holds that Leif Erikson heard about Vinland from the Icelandic trader Bjarni Herjulfsson, who had sighted the North American continent from his ship 14 years before Leif’s voyage but not set foot on land.

In addition to uncertainty about the context of Erikson’s arrival in North America, the exact location of his landing is also in doubt. The Groenlendinga saga claims he made three landfalls at Helluland (possibly Labrador), Markland (possibly Newfoundland) and Vinland. The location of Vinland has been debated over the centuries, and has been identified as a variety of spots along the northern Atlantic coast. 

In the early 1960s, excavations at L’Anse aux Meadows, on the northernmost tip of Newfoundland, turned up evidence of what is generally believed to be the base camp of the 11th-century Viking exploration, though others believe that the region is too far north to correspond to the Vinland described in the Icelandic sagas.

Erikson’s Later Life in Greenland and Legacy

After his time in Vinland, Erikson returned to Greenland, and he would never return to North American shores. Though his father proved unreceptive to the Christian faith, Leif was able to convert his mother, Thjodhild, who had Greenland’s first Christian church built at Brattahild. 

When Erik the Red died, Leif Erikson took over as chief of the Greenland settlement. His son Thorgils was sent by his mother (whom Leif never married) to live in Greenland, but was apparently unpopular. Another (presumably legitimate) son, Thorkel Leifsson, became chief by 1025, after his father’s death. Nothing further is known about Leif’s descendants.

Beginning in the late 19th century, many Nordic Americans celebrated Leif Erikson as the first European explorer of the New World. In 1925, in honor of the 100th anniversary of the arrival of the first official group of Norwegian immigrants in the United States, President Calvin Coolidge announced to a Minnesota crowd that Erikson had been the first European to discover America. And in September 1964, Congress approved a public resolution that authorized President Lyndon B. Johnson to declare October 9 as “Leif Erikson Day.”

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Leif Erikson: The Norse Explorer Who Pioneered New Worlds

Leif Erikson, a name etched in the annals of history, stands out as a paramount Norse explorer, celebrated for his groundbreaking journey to North America, long before Columbus set sail. This article embarks on a detailed exploration of Erikson’s life, his daring voyages across the Atlantic, and the indelible impact he left on history and modern culture. We delve into the heart of his story, unearthing the factual truths beneath the layers of myth and legend, to paint a vivid portrait of this pioneering figure. Our journey through Erikson’s life is not just a voyage back in time, but also a reflection on how his legacy continues to shape our understanding of exploration and cultural interaction in the contemporary world.

I. Early Life and Background

Family and heritage.

Leif Erikson’s saga begins in the rugged landscapes of Iceland, born into a lineage of adventurers and outlaws. His father, Erik the Red, notorious for his fiery temper and exiled from both Norway and Iceland, founded the first Norse settlements in Greenland. This family of pioneers set the stage for Leif’s future endeavors, ingraining in him a spirit of exploration and resilience.

Norse Culture and Society

In the era of Leif Erikson, Norse society was characterized by its robust maritime culture, deeply intertwined with exploration, trade, and warfare. The Vikings, as they were known, were not just raiders but also traders and settlers, sailing across the known world. Their society was structured around strong clan loyalties and a pantheon of gods that underscored their connection to the natural world and the sea. It was in this vibrant and often harsh environment that Leif Erikson’s character and destiny were forged, setting him on a path that would lead to historic voyages and discoveries.

II. Leif Erikson’s Voyages

Journey to greenland.

Leif Erikson’s inaugural voyage, as chronicled in the sagas, was not one of discovery, but rather a mission to the already-established Greenland, a land his father had colonized. Around 1000 AD, steering his course through the treacherous North Atlantic, Leif demonstrated exceptional navigational skills, a testament to the advanced maritime knowledge of the Norse. These sagas, though occasionally veiled in legend, offer glimpses into the real challenges and triumphs of these early voyages, revealing a story of resilience and survival against formidable odds.

Discovery of Vinland

The pinnacle of Leif Erikson’s adventures, however, was his journey to Vinland, what is now known as North America. This expedition, detailed in the ‘Saga of the Greenlanders’ and the ‘Saga of Erik the Red,’ marks a significant historical event. Leif, guided by tales of a land west of Greenland, set sail and eventually landed in a place with a mild climate and fertile lands, vastly different from the icy shores of Greenland. This land, believed to be part of modern-day Canada, was rich in resources, a fact that did not escape Leif’s keen observation. The discovery of Vinland is a cornerstone in the history of exploration, symbolizing the first known European encounter with North America, centuries before Columbus.

III. Historical Evidence and Sources

Sagas and chronicles.

The primary lens through which we view Leif Erikson’s life and voyages is the rich tapestry of the Sagas of Icelanders. These medieval narratives, specifically the ‘Saga of the Greenlanders’ and the ‘Saga of Erik the Red’, serve as crucial historical sources. While they blend history with folklore, modern historians analyze these texts with a critical eye to sift fact from fiction. These sagas, written centuries after Erikson’s time, are not mere stories but are embedded with cultural and historical contexts that provide invaluable insights into the Viking Age. Scholars like Gisli Sigurdsson and Else Roesdahl have offered interpretations that help bridge the gap between the saga narratives and historical realities.

Archaeological Evidence

Complementing the sagas, recent archaeological discoveries have shed new light on Leif Erikson’s expeditions. The most significant of these is the Norse settlement at L’Anse aux Meadows in Newfoundland, Canada, which aligns with the descriptions of Vinland. Excavations at this UNESCO World Heritage site have unearthed evidence of Norse presence, such as building remains and artifacts, that correlate with the timeline of Erikson’s voyage. These findings not only corroborate the sagas but also provide a tangible connection to the Norse explorers’ journeys, offering a blend of historical and archaeological perspectives on the Viking expeditions to the New World.

IV. Leif Erikson’s Legacy and Cultural Impact

Historical impact.

Leif Erikson’s voyages stand as a monumental chapter in the annals of exploration, marking the earliest known European contact with North America. His journeys predate Columbus’s arrival by nearly 500 years, challenging the traditional narrative of the discovery of the New World. Erikson’s exploration signified the far-reaching capabilities of Norse seafaring and set a precedent for future transatlantic voyages. His expeditions not only highlight the Norse as pioneers in exploration but also underscore the interconnectedness of the world long before globalization.

Modern Recognition

Today, Leif Erikson’s legacy is celebrated and honored in various forms. Most notably, Leif Erikson Day on October 9th commemorates his achievements and acknowledges his role in connecting Europe with the Americas. This day, recognized in countries like the United States and Iceland, reflects a growing awareness and appreciation of Erikson’s historical significance. Furthermore, statues, plaques, and educational programs dedicated to him serve as testaments to his enduring impact. Through these commemorations, Leif Erikson remains a symbol of exploration and cultural exchange, bridging past and present, and inspiring future generations.

V. Conclusion

In summary, Leif Erikson emerges not just as a figure of legend, but as a pivotal character in the narrative of global exploration. His voyages to Greenland and Vinland, grounded in both saga and archaeological evidence, reframe our understanding of early transatlantic exploration. Leif’s story transcends the boundaries of time, marking the first European footsteps in North America and challenging long-held perceptions of historical discovery. His legacy, celebrated annually and embedded in cultural consciousness, continues to inspire a sense of adventure and discovery. Leif Erikson’s tale is a testament to the human spirit’s unyielding quest for exploration and understanding, a legacy that endures in our quest to uncover the many layers of our world’s rich and diverse history.

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Leif Eriksson

Norse explorer Leif Eriksson is credited with being the first European to reach North America.

Who Was Leif Eriksson?

Although various accounts exist, the differences in their details often make it difficult to separate fact and legend when discussing the life of Norse explorer Leif Eriksson. He is believed to have been born circa 960–970 A.D., the second of three sons of Erik the Red, who founded the first European settlement on what is now Greenland. As Erik the Red’s father had been banished from Norway and settled in Iceland, it is likely that Leif was born there and raised in Greenland. However, from here the facts become as diverse as the spelling of his name.

By most accounts, around the year 1000, Eriksson sailed from Greenland to Norway where he served in the court of King Olaf I Tryggvason, who converted him from Norse paganism to Christianity. Soon thereafter, Olaf commissioned Eriksson to proselytize across Greenland and spread Christianity to the settlers there as well. Although Eriksson would eventually make it back to Greenland, it is the details and motives of his return route that are the subject of most debate.

In the 13th-century Icelandic account The Saga of Erik the Red, Eriksson’s ships are said to have drifted off course on the return voyage home, finding dry ground at last on the North American continent. They are most likely to have disembarked in what is now Nova Scotia, which Eriksson named Vinland, perhaps in reference to the wild grapes that his landing party saw there. However, The Saga of the Greenlanders , which dates to the same era, suggests that Eriksson had heard already learned of “Vinland” from another seamen, Bjarni Herjólfsson, who had already been there more than a decade earlier, and that Eriksson sailed there on purpose, landing first in an icy region he named “Helluland” (believed now to be Baffin Island) and the heavily forested “Markland” (thought to be Labrador) before eventually making his way eventually to the more hospitable Vinland.

Whatever his motives, or the lack thereof, Eriksson is generally credited as the first European to set foot on the shores of North America, nearly five centuries before Christopher Columbus would arrive in 1492. But all suggest that Eriksson was most likely a member of an early Viking voyage to North America, if not, in fact, the leader of that first expedition.

Despite his exploration, Eriksson would never colonize the region, nor did his brothers Thorvald Eriksson and Freydis Eiríksdóttir or Icelander Thorfinn Karlsefni, who visited Vinland after Eriksson. Returning to Greenland, Eriksson spent his efforts spreading Christianity. His mother, Thjodhild, became an early convert and built Greenland’s first Christian church, at Brattahlid, Erik the Red’s home in the east of the settlement. As for Eriksson, he is believed to have lived out his life in Greenland, dying somewhere around the year 1020.

The exact location of Vinland is not known, but in 1963 ruins of an 11th-century Viking settlement were discovered at L’Anse-aux-Meadows in northern Newfoundland. Now labeled a UNESCO National Historic Site, it is the oldest European settlement to have been found in North America, and more than 2,000 Viking objects have been recovered from it, supporting accounts that Eriksson and his men wintered there before setting sail for home.

In recognition of Eriksson’s pioneering voyage, in September 1964 the United States Congress authorized the president of the United States to declare each October 9 as Leif Eriksson Day, a national day of observance. Over the years, various groups have attempted to elevate the celebration, but due in part to the fact that Christopher Columbus’s later voyage resulted more directly in European migration to North America, its status has remained unchanged.

Despite this, Eriksson’s voyage is commemorated by statues throughout the United States, and in Newfoundland, Norway, Iceland and Greenland, and Iceland’s Exploration Museum annually presents its Leif Eriksson Awards for achievements in the field of exploration.

QUICK FACTS

• Name: Leif Eriksson
• Birth Year: 970
• Birth Country: Iceland
• Gender: Male
• Best Known For: Norse explorer Leif Eriksson is credited with being the first European to reach North America.
• Nacionalities
• Icelander (Iceland)
• Interesting Facts
• Death Year: 1020

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World History Edu

• World History

Life and Adventures of Leif Eriksson

by World History Edu · February 24, 2024

Leif Eriksson, a name etched in the annals of history as the legendary Norse explorer, stands as a figure of immense curiosity and admiration. Born around 970 AD in Iceland, he was the son of Erik the Red, the notorious founder of the first Norse settlements in Greenland.

Undoubtedly, Leif’s saga is not just a tale of exploration and discovery but a vivid narrative of resilience, leadership, and the unquenchable thirst for venturing into the unknown.

Leif Eriksson was a Norse explorer, known for being among the first Europeans to set foot in North America, predating Columbus by centuries.

Below, World History Edu delves into the life and journeys of Leif Erikson.

Most Famous Explorers of All Time

Early Life in a Seafaring Culture

Leif’s upbringing was steeped in the rich seafaring culture of the Norse people. From a young age, he would have been familiar with the sagas and stories of distant lands beyond the sea, tales of adventure that were part of the Norse oral tradition. His father, Erik the Red, was a formidable figure, having established the first Norse settlement in Greenland after being exiled from Iceland. This background provided Leif with the perfect blend of ambition and expertise necessary for maritime exploration.

The Journey to Greenland

Leif’s early life was marked by significant events, one of which was his journey to Greenland with his father. This expedition was not merely a relocation but a venture into relatively unknown and inhospitable territories. The successful establishment of settlements in Greenland under Erik the Red’s leadership would have been a profound lesson for young Leif, teaching him the essentials of survival, colonization, and leadership in uncharted lands.

Vinland Saga: The Discovery of a New World

The most celebrated chapter in Leif Eriksson’s life is undoubtedly his discovery of Vinland, what is believed today to be part of North America. The sagas recount that Leif set sail from Greenland around the year 1000 AD, possibly driven by stories of lands to the west mentioned by earlier Norse sailors. The exact reasons for Leif’s voyage remain a subject of speculation, ranging from a deliberate exploration mission to a voyage blown off course by the North Atlantic currents.

Leif and his crew first landed in a place they named Helluland, believed to be modern-day Baffin Island, characterized by its flat stones and rocky terrain. Moving further south, they reached a land with white sandy shores and lush forests, which they named Markland, likely today’s Labrador. The culmination of their journey was Vinland, a region described as being rich in grapes and self-sown wheat, possibly located in what is now Newfoundland, Canada.

Life in Vinland

The sagas provide tantalizing glimpses into Leif and his crew’s life in Vinland. They built a settlement, which archaeological evidence at L’Anse aux Meadows confirms, and spent a winter there. This settlement served as a base for exploration in the surrounding areas and for gathering resources such as timber and grapes, essential commodities in Greenland.

Leif’s Return

Leif returned to Greenland after his expeditions, where he assumed a leadership role following his father’s death. He is credited with introducing Christianity to Greenland, having been converted during a stay in Norway. His voyages to Vinland were not followed up significantly in his lifetime, possibly due to hostile encounters with the indigenous peoples, referred to as Skrælings in the sagas, or the logistical challenges of sustaining long-distance colonies.

Leif Eriksson’s legacy is monumental, transcending the annals of Norse history to become a part of the broader narrative of human exploration. He is celebrated as the first European to set foot on North American shores, nearly 500 years before Christopher Columbus. His voyages highlight the remarkable seafaring capabilities of the Norse people and their openness to exploring the world beyond the familiar confines of Europe.

Historical and Cultural Impact

Leif Eriksson’s adventures have had a lasting impact on history and culture, influencing not just the perception of Viking explorations but also shaping modern identities. In the 19th and 20th centuries, Leif became a symbol of Scandinavian heritage, particularly among communities of Scandinavian descent in North America. Leif Eriksson Day, celebrated on October 9th in the United States, exemplifies his cultural significance, commemorating the contributions of Scandinavians to American history and the spirit of exploration.

In the grand tapestry of history, Leif Eriksson stands out not just as an explorer but as a symbol of the human urge to discover, to venture beyond the horizon in search of the unknown.

Frequently asked questions about Leif Eriksson

Leif Eriksson is famous for his voyage to Vinland, which many believe is part of modern-day Canada, effectively making him one of the first European explorers to reach North America.

The following are some of the most asked questions about this Norse explorer:

When did Leif Eriksson discover America?

Leif Eriksson’s journey to Vinland is believed to have taken place around the year 1000 AD.

Where was Leif Eriksson from?

Leif was born in Iceland, the son of Erik the Red, who founded the first Norse settlements in Greenland.

What lands did Leif Eriksson discover?

He discovered several areas in North America, including places he named Helluland, Markland, and Vinland.

How did Leif Eriksson navigate?

Norse explorers like Leif relied on the sun, stars, and ocean currents for navigation, along with possibly using sunstones to locate the sun on cloudy days.

What happened to Leif Eriksson’s settlements in Vinland?

The settlements in Vinland were not permanent and were eventually abandoned, possibly due to conflicts with indigenous peoples or the logistical challenges of sustaining them.

Vikings, including Leif Eriksson, explored three regions: Helluland, possibly Baffin Island, known for its flat stones; Markland, a forested area; and Vinland, celebrated for its grapes, suggesting a fertile land. Image: A painting, by Hans Dahl, of Erikson’s discovery of America.

Who was Leif Eriksson’s brother Thorvald?

Per the accounts, Leif Eriksson briefly settled in North America, spending one winter before returning to Greenland with valuable timber, crucial for Viking ships, homes, and furniture. And following his path, his brother Thorvald embarked on a similar journey, staying in the newfound land for an extended period, several years, continuing the exploration and interaction with the continent.

Upon reaching the new lands, Thorvald encountered a number of indigenous peoples, whom they referred to as “skrælings” (an Old Norse term roughly meaning ‘barbarians’). Initial interactions led to a violent clash, resulting in the death of almost all the indigenous individuals in one encounter.

This hostility escalated when the native population retaliated with a significant attack using boats. During this confrontation, Thorvald was fatally injured by an arrow that struck him in the armpit, leading to his death from the wounds sustained. This incident underscores the challenging and often hostile interactions between the Vikings and the indigenous populations of North America.

Myths About the Viking Age

Is there any archaeological evidence of Leif Eriksson’s voyages?

Yes, the site at L’Anse aux Meadows in Newfoundland, Canada, has been widely accepted as evidence of Norse presence in North America, likely linked to Leif’s voyages.

How is Leif Eriksson remembered today?

Leif Eriksson is celebrated for his contributions to exploration, particularly in Scandinavian communities and through Leif Eriksson Day in the United States on October 9th.

Did Leif Eriksson interact with indigenous peoples of North America?

The sagas mention encounters with indigenous peoples, referred to as “Skrælings,” though details about these interactions are sparse and largely legendary.

Tags: Leif Eriksson Norse Explorers Norse Sagas Transatlantic Voyages Viking Age Vinland Discovery

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1 Leif Erikson (ca. 1000)

The Norse have an old legend that Viking hero Leif Erikson founded a colony in a new land they called Vinland. The discovery of the Norse village in 1960 and its acceptance as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1978 established the Newfoundland colony as the oldest known European site in the Americas, and very probably as the Vinland settlement of Norse legends. The Canadian ruins date from the appropriate period, around 1000 CE. Artifacts found in the remains of eight buildings include farm implements and spinning and blacksmith tools. It was probably an extension of the permanent Viking settlements on Greenland that were the home of Leif’s father, Erik the Red.

Biarni Heriulfsson came out from Greenland on a visit to Earl Erik, by whom he was well received. Biarni gave an account of his travels [while lost at sea in a fog for several days, he apparently landed in America] when he saw the lands, and the people thought that he had been lacking in enterprise, since he had no report to give concerning these countries; and the fact brought him reproach. Biarni was appointed one of the Earl’s men, and went out to Greenland the following summer. There was now much talk about voyages of discovery. Leif, the son of Erik the Red, of Brattahlid, visited Biarni Heriulfsson and bought a ship of him, and collected a crew, until they formed altogether a company of thirty-five men. Leif invited his father, Erik, to become the leader of the expedition, but Erik declined, saying that he was then stricken in years, and adding that he was less able to endure the exposure of sea life than he had been. Leif replied that he would nevertheless be the one who would be most apt to bring good luck and Erik yielded to Leif’s solicitation, and rode from home when they were ready to sail.

When he was but a short distance from the ship, the horse which Erik was riding stumbled, and he was thrown from his back and wounded his foot, whereupon he exclaimed, “It is not designed for me to discover more lands than the one in which we are now living, nor can we now continue longer together.” Erik returned home to Brattahlid, and Leif pursued his way to the ship with his companions, thirty-five men. One of the company was a German, named Tyrker. They put the ship in order; and, when they were ready, they sailed out to sea, and found first that land which Biarni and his shipmates found last. They sailed up to the land, and cast anchor, and launched a boat, and went ashore, and saw no grass there. Great ice mountains lay inland back from the sea, and it was as a [tableland of] flat rock all the way from the sea to the ice mountains; and the country seemed to them to be entirely devoid of good qualities. Then said, Leif “It has not come to pass with us in regard to this land as with Biarni, that we have not gone upon it. To this country I will now give a name and call it Helleland [the land of flat rocks].”

They returned to the ship, put out to sea, and found a second land. They sailed again to the land, and came to anchor, and launched the boat, and went ashore. This was a level wooded land; and there were broad stretches of white sand where they went, and the land was level by the sea. Then said Leif, “This land shall have a name after its nature; and we will call it Markland [land of forests].” They returned to the ship forthwith, and sailed away upon the main with north-east winds, and were out a full day before they sighted land. They sailed toward this land and came to an island which lay to the northward off the land. There they went ashore and looked about them, the weather being fine, and they observed that there was dew upon the grass, and it so happened that they touched the dew with their hands, and touched their hands to their mouths, and it seemed to them that they had never before tasted anything so sweet as this. They went aboard their ship again and sailed into a certain sound, which lay between the island and a cape, which jutted out from the land on the north, and they stood in westering past the cape. At ebb-tide, there were broad reaches of shallow water there, and they ran their ship aground there, and it was a long distance from the ship to the ocean; yet were they so anxious to go ashore that they could not wait until the tide should rise under their ship, but hastened to the land, where a certain river flows out from a lake. As soon as the tide rose beneath their ship, however, they took the boat and rowed to the ship, which they conveyed up the river, and so into the lake, where they cast anchor and carried their hammocks ashore from the ship and built themselves cabins there.

They afterward determined to establish themselves there for the winter, and they accordingly built a large house. There was no lack of salmon there either in the river or in the lake, and larger salmon than they had ever seen before. The country thereabouts seemed to be possessed of such good qualities that cattle would need no fodder there during the winters. There was no frost there in the winters, and the grass withered but little. The days and nights there were of more nearly equal length than in Greenland or Iceland. On the shortest day of winter, the sun was up between 7:30 and 3:30 [suggesting a latitude of about 50°]. When they had completed their house, Leif said to his companions, “I propose now to divide our company into two groups, and to set about an exploration of the country. One-half of our party shall remain at home at the house, while the other half shall investigate the land; and they must not go beyond a point from which they can return home the same evening, and are not to separate [from each other]. Thus they did for a time. Leif, himself, by turns joined the exploring party, or remained behind at the house. Leif was a large a powerful man, and of a most imposing bearing; a man of sagacity, and a very just man in all things.

Erik the Red also died that winter. There was now much talk about Leif’s Vinland journey; and his brother, Thorvald, held that the country had not been sufficiently explored. Thereupon Leif said to Thorvald, “If it be thy will, brother, thou mayest go to Vinland with my ship.” And so it was done.

They were soon provided with an abundant and goodly supply of food; for a whale of good size and quality was driven ashore there, and they secured it, and flensed it, and had then no lack of provisions. The cattle were turned out upon the land, and the males soon became very restless and vicious: they had brought a bull with them. Karlsefni caused trees to be felled and to be hewed into timbers wherewith to load his ship, and the wood was placed upon a cliff to dry. They gathered somewhat of all of the valuable products of the land: grapes, and all kinds of game and fish, and other good things. In the summer succeeding the first winter Skrellings were discovered. A great troop of men came forth from out the woods. The cattle were hard by, and the bull began to bellow and roar with a great noise, whereat the Skrellings were frightened, and ran away with their packs, wherein were gray furs, sables, and all kinds of pelts. They fled towards Karlsefni’s dwelling and sought to effect an entrance into the house; but Karlsefni caused the doors to be defended [against them].

Source: Leif Erikson’s Discovery of America, from the Saga of Erik the Red (1387) in American historical documents, 1000-1904: with introductions and notes . New York: P.F. Collier, c1910.  The Harvard Classics v. 43. https://sourcebooks.fordham.edu/mod/1000Vinland.asp

American History Told By Contemporaries Copyright © by Dan Allosso is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.

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Table of Contents:

• Introduction
• Leaf Erickson: The Viking Explorer
• Two Sagas, Two Perspectives
• Erickson’s Journey to North America
• The Naming of Lands
• The Legacy of Viking Exploration
• The Trustworthiness of Sagas

Introduction:

The story of Christopher Columbus discovering America has long been known and debated. Questions about whether it can truly be called a discovery when the land was already inhabited and the fact that Columbus explored South and Central America rather than North America are valid. However, another significant inquiry often gets overshadowed: why is the credit for the discovery of the Americas by Europeans given to Columbus and not the Vikings?

Leaf Erickson: The Viking Explorer:

Approximately five centuries before Christopher Columbus set foot on American soil, it was Leif Erikson, a Scandinavian Viking, who became the first European to do so. Leif Erikson was born in Iceland around 970 AD to the prominent Viking explorer Eric the Red. His childhood was spent partly in Greenland, where his father founded a new settlement after being exiled from Iceland. As an adult, Erikson journeyed to Norway, where he was convinced by King Olaf I to convert to Christianity and return to Greenland to convert his fellow settlers.

Two Sagas, Two Perspectives:

Two sagas provide differing accounts of Erikson’s journey to the New World. These Icelandic legends, originally passed down orally and later written, give a timeline starting around 1000 AD, but their details vary. In the Saga of the Greenlanders, Erikson hears tales of a mysterious land across the ocean from a man named Bjarni Herjólfsson and embarks on a voyage with 35 men, landing in what is now believed to be Baffin Island. In the Saga of Eric the Red, Erikson stumbles upon the American continent accidentally while returning to Greenland from Norway.

Erikson’s Journey to North America:

Erikson and his crew successfully crossed the vast Atlantic and reached the shores of North America, specifically somewhere in present-day Canada. He named this newfound land “Helluland,” which in Old Norse means “stone-slab land,” possibly referring to Baffin Island. The Vikings continued southward, likely reaching modern-day Labrador, which Erikson called “Markland” (forest land). Their explorations eventually led them to the tip of Newfoundland, where they set up a base camp and spent the winter, taking advantage of the milder climate and abundant resources.

The Naming of Lands:

Erikson’s exploration revealed a bountiful land with rivers teeming with salmon, lush greenery, and abundant wild grapes, leading him to name the region “Vinland” or “wine land.” While this may seem like an explorer’s dream, the two sagas differ on whether Erikson’s journey was intentional or accidental.

The Legacy of Viking Exploration:

After Erikson’s expedition, he became the chief of the Greenland settlement upon his return and did not venture back to North American lands. However, other Vikings continued to explore the New World in the following years, establishing temporary settlements. Only three years after Erikson’s expedition, his brother was killed in ongoing conflicts with native populations, potentially making him the first European buried in American soil.

The Trustworthiness of Sagas:

The authenticity of the sagas as historical records has been a subject of debate. Many historians and archaeologists argue that these Icelandic stories contain real historical facts, even if some details may have been altered over the years. Evidence supporting Erikson’s journey to North America has been discovered, aligning with the sagas’ accounts.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the question of whether Christopher Columbus or Leif Erikson was the first European to discover the Americas remains a topic of debate. Columbus explored the South and Central parts, while the Vikings explored the North five centuries earlier. However, it is essential to recognize that the Americas were already inhabited by indigenous tribes, challenging the notion of European “discovery.” Nonetheless, the evidence from Erikson’s settlements in Newfoundland and the sagas’ historical accuracy validate the Viking exploration of North America, marking it as a significant part of the continent’s history.

Who was Leif Erikson, and why is he significant in history?

Leif Erikson was a Scandinavian Viking explorer born around 970 AD. He is significant in history as the first European to set foot in North America, specifically in areas now believed to be Canada. His exploration of North America occurred approximately five centuries before Christopher Columbus, making him a pioneer in European exploration of the New World.

What evidence supports Leif Erikson’s journey to North America?

Evidence supporting Leif Erikson’s journey to North America includes the two Icelandic sagas, the Saga of the Greenlanders and the Saga of Eric the Red, which provide detailed accounts of his voyages. Additionally, archaeological findings, such as the discovery of Viking settlements in Newfoundland, align with the sagas’ descriptions. Scientific analysis of wood from these ruins also dates back to the same century as Erikson’s alleged presence, further corroborating his historic exploration.

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The Truth About Leif Erikson's Famed Journey To Vinland

You could say exploration was in Leif Erikson 's blood. He was the second of three sons of Erik the Red , a feisty Viking who created the first European settlement on Greenland somewhere around 980 CE after Iceland banished him from the country, according to Biography . 

Erik's nickname resulted from his volatile temperament and red hair and beard. His own father, Thorvald Asvaldsson, shared that penchant for violence and needed to leave Norway after killing a man. Erik settled in Iceland, married Thjodhild Jörundsdóttir, and thrived until his servants caused an accidental landslide that destroyed his neighbor's home. That triggered a bout of bloodlust with a kinsman of the victim, Eyiolf the Foul, who murdered Erik's servants. In return, the bearded Viking took the lives of Eyiolf and another member of the clan. That caused his exile from Haukadale, or Eriksstead, as Erik the Red called it, and he moved further north to the island of Oxney. He later killed two others in a property squabble and that ousted him from Iceland for three years (Biography).

What Leif's (also known by Eiriksson, Erickson, or just "Leif the Lucky") early days were like are unknown, but many believe he spent his youth in Greenland, after being born in Iceland about 970-980 CE, according to the World History Encyclopedia . "The Saga of Erik the Red," a 13th century Icelandic manuscript, describes a journey from Greenland to Norway that Leif took about 1000 CE (via History ) that set him on course for his Vinland discovery. 

An accidental landing

Once in Norway, Erikson visited with King Olaf I Tryggvason, who converted him to Christianity, and commissioned him to convert other settlers in Greenland (via History ). Some say that Erikson lost his way as he traveled home and spent several months in North America, exploring a section the Norse dubbed Vinland, or "Wine Land." It is believed the area extended from Newfoundland to the Gulf of St. Lawrence, and maybe even extended to Prince Edward Island and New Brunswick, according to The World History Encyclopedia . Sources like the New World Encyclopedia  believe the areas he first visited were Helluland (the "flatstone land") and perhaps Baffin Island, before he landed on Markland, now known as Labrador (the "wood land").

The Viking and his crew enjoyed all the wonder Vineland offered, from timber to fur-trapping to the grapes it was named in honor of, according to Encyclopedia Britannica . Others believe he tried to find the land after hearing stories about the place from an Icelandic trader. He stayed through the winter, creating temporary shelters, and then sailed back to his homeland. Although he never came back, he is thought to be the first European to visit North America, some four centuries prior to Christopher Columbus' ballyhooed arrival in 1492.

Leif's brother, Thorvald, also had the family wanderlust and visited Vinland himself, intending to start a Viking settlement there. The Native Americans, who lived there first, though, had other plans and fighting broke out that ultimately killed Thorvald (via History).

Unanswered questions about Erikson's discovery

Whether or not Erikson "discovered" Vinland is often disputed. Much of his story came from two ancient texts, "The Saga of the Greenlanders" and "Erik the Red's Saga," which were written more than 200 years after the voyage, according to the World History Encyclopedia , and included no accounts from anyone who actually traveled with Erikson. However, the books share mostly similar stories, which enhances their veracity.

Time magazine explains that much of the evidence that exists about Erikson's time in Vinland is probably fraudulent. That includes an alleged 1440 "Vinland Map," a Norse penny, and the Kensington Stone, a tablet that supposedly uses runes to tell the story of Erikson's voyage to North America. Archaeologist did uncover Norse ruins at L'Anse aux Meadows in Newfoundland during a 1960 dig by a married couple, Anne Stine and Heige Ingstad, that indicate at least some Vikings spent time there (photo above).

Erikson eventually became chief of Greenland when his father died in 1000 CE. He continued his missionary work and allegedly converted his mother to Christianity. She, in turn, started the first Christian church in the country (via New World Encyclopedia ). 

The Viking's accomplishments, as well as those of others of Nordic descent, are showcased each year on Leif Erikson Day on October 9 in the United States. The Norseman received his special day on September 2, 1964, after the U.S. Congress passed Resolution 88-566 that authorized President Lyndon B. Johnson to proclaim the date Leif Erikson Day (via National Day Calendar ).

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