Ellen Lloyd - AncientPages.com - An influential Viking chief had many enemies lurking everywhere. To stay in power, he had to be protected. A hird consisted of hired professional warriors who guaranteed their leader's safety day and night.
They were greatly rewarded for their services and lived a life many young men could only envy.
Many young Vikings dreamt about an adventurous life, and being chosen to a hird was a great honor. A young Viking had to distinguish himself because Viking chiefs selected the most skilled warriors and only those from influential families.
Being good in battle was no guarantee that a Viking could serve in a hird.
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See also:
How Was A Viking King Elected And What Was Expected From Him?
Vikings Had Dark Humor And Joked Even During Deadly Battles
