Historians use historical empathy when researching the past. This means that historians try to view the past without judgement. They try to understand the time and place of the people and events they are studying. You will look at three sources to answer the historical research question, "Why did the Vikings leave Greenland?” Then, write a well-structured paragraph describing one reason the Vikings may have left Greenland. Your sources are located here.

Question

in your own words

Answer 1

One significant reason the Vikings may have left Greenland is the changing climate and its impact on agricultural productivity. During the time of the Vikings, Greenland experienced a period known as the Medieval Warm Period, which allowed for farming and settlement. However, as the climate began to cool in the Little Ice Age, the growing seasons shortened and harsh winters became more common. This shift would have made it increasingly difficult for the Vikings to sustain their communities through farming, leading to food shortages. As resources dwindled and survival became more challenging, it is likely that the Vikings sought more favorable environments elsewhere, prompting their migration away from Greenland in search of better living conditions and more reliable food sources.