What on Earth? Season 10 Episode 3 Viking Warrior Invasion

In the season 10 episode 3 of What on Earth?, titled Viking Warrior Invasion, the show takes a look at one of the most intriguing historical mysteries of the Viking era: did Viking warriors invade North America almost 500 years before Christopher Columbus? The episode explores the evidence that suggests the Norse may have landed on the coast of Newfoundland, Canada, around the year 1000 CE.

The episode begins by giving a brief overview of the Viking era and their well-known maritime activities. The show then introduces the Vinland Map, a mysterious document discovered in the early 20th century, that appears to show the eastern coast of North America, including Newfoundland, with the label "Vinland", a name given by the Norse to an area they may have explored. Despite its authenticity being questioned, the map has become an object of intense fascination for historians and archaeologists.

The show then turns to archaeologists who have been conducting excavations and research in Newfoundland's L'Anse aux Meadows since the late 20th century. L'Anse aux Meadows is a site that many believe is the remains of a Viking settlement. The episode takes a look at the various findings from the site over the years, from Viking-style artifacts to historic hearths. It also looks at the different theories relating to the site - some claiming that the site was purely a forward base for more explorations, while others believe that it was a trading post.

To explore this mystery further, the show then moves to Greenland, where it delves into the world of the modern-day Inuit. Inuit legends and oral history suggest that the Vikings may have been in the New World long before other Europeans. The show explores the cultural significance of this idea in contemporary Inuit communities and visits a museum in Iqaluit, Nunavut, that houses artifacts that may link the Inuit and the Vikings.

The show then shifts its focus to the coast of Maine, where geologists have been looking for evidence of Norse presence. The episode looks at the geology of the Damariscotta River and explores the process of dendrochronology - the study of tree rings. This technique has revealed that the area was home to a large number of birch trees at a time when birch was the preferred building material for the Vikings. The show suggests that Vikings may have set up a base in Maine, using the abundant birch in the area to build their boats.

Finally, the episode circles back to the Vinland Map, which has inspired so much debate over the years. The show looks at the history of the map and explores the different theories on its origins. While some experts believe that the map is a forgery, others point to evidence that suggests it could be authentic. The episode explores the technological advances in ink analysis that are helping to shed new light on the document, and looks at how modern science is offering new insights into this ancient mystery.

Throughout the entire episode, experts provide fascinating insights and theories related to the possible Viking presence in North America. The show employs engaging graphics and illustrations to help viewers visualize the various locations and findings. Additionally, the show offers historical context and presents a balanced view of the different theories and evidence, allowing viewers to make up their own minds about the truth behind the Viking warrior invasion hypothesis.