When there was a battle to be fought, these warriors were there: gladiators, conquistadors, ninjas, Vikings . . . From Roman arenas to the lawless high seas, this series for readers age 12 and up spotlights the world's most fearsome combatants. Each title surveys the history of a fighting group, examining key leaders, weapons, skills, rules of warfare, and reasons for existing. In the dark Scandinavian winter, the Vikings were peaceful, family-centered landowners. But come spring, they turned into fierce warriors and expert sailors, navigating speedy longships from Norway, Sweden, and Denmark in search of wealth and land. From the 790s to about 1000, the Vikings raided villages, plundered gold and other treasure, and captured slaves to work their farms back home. This title for readers age 12 and up surveys the history of the Northmen. It covers key fighters, weapons, combat skills, and rules of warfare. Includes a glossary, sidebars, index, and further resources.