Ragnar Lodbrok Day (28/03)

Traditionally, Ragnar Lodbrok Day is celebrated in Scandinavian countries on March 28.

Ragnar Lodbrock is known as one of the legendary kings of Denmark and Sweden, ruling around the 8th or 9th centuries. Despite the fact that he is considered a national hero in his native Scandinavia, Lodbrock's biographies are quite unreliable and fragmentary, focused mainly on the sagas of the ancient Vikings.

It is noteworthy that the years of Lodbrok’s reign are not precisely established. Some sources name the period 750–794, others — 860–865. The most likely years are considered to be Lodbrock's reign from 835 until his death in 865, when he proved himself to be an influential military leader and dictator. It is possible that Lodbrok was recognized as king only for the last five years of his life.

Ragnar was a pagan who proclaimed himself one of the direct descendants of the god Odin. Legends recount that his preferred military strategy was to raid Christian cities during religious festivals; Lodbrok knew that it was at such times that all military leaders and soldiers were present at church service.

By 845, Lodbrok was already an influential ruler and, most likely, a contemporary of the first ruler of Rus', Prince Rurik. Legends have left information that Lodbrock has always sought new adventures, constantly feeling worried that his pirated sons will someday commit a more noticeable act, thereby eclipsing his father's fame.

In 845, Ragnar once again went to sea and headed south in search of new lands for conquest. On 120 ships and with an army of five thousand Vikings, Lodbrok moored to the shores of modern France. As a result of this campaign, Western France was devastated.

Traditionally, on Ragnar Lodbrok's Day, a toast is made in honor of Ragnar and his Saga is recited. The celebration of this day today in no way indicates the aggressive attitude of Asatru's followers. Most likely, in its modern expression, this holiday is a celebration of courage and courage.

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