History of Oceania

Why did vikings kill whales?

Vikings primarily hunted whales for their meat, blubber, and oil, which were crucial resources for their survival.

* Meat: Whale meat was a rich source of protein, providing sustenance for the Vikings during long and arduous journeys.

* Blubber: The thick layer of blubber beneath the whale's skin served as a valuable source of fat. Vikings rendered the blubber into oil for various purposes.

* Oil: Whale oil had multiple uses, including lighting lamps, providing fuel for cooking and heating, and preserving food. It also served as a sealant for waterproofing their ships and as a lubricant.

In addition to these primary resources, Vikings may have utilized other parts of the whale, such as bones and baleen, for various practical or decorative purposes.