Be Ruthless Ivar:

The Rise and Fall of a Viking Legend

The Early Years

Ivar the Ruthless, also known as Ivar Ragnarsson or Ivarr, was a legendary Viking chieftain who lived during the 9th century. He was the son of the famous Viking king Ragnar Lodbrok and is best known for his ruthlessness and military prowess.

Ivar was born in Denmark and, according to legend, was born a cripple with weak legs. Despite his physical limitations, he was a skilled warrior and tactician. He became a prominent figure in the Viking Great Heathen Army, a coalition of Viking tribes that raided and conquered large parts of England and France.

The Great Heathen Army

In 865, Ivar led the Great Heathen Army on a successful invasion of England. They captured the city of York and established a Viking kingdom in the Danelaw, a region of northern England. Ivar also led raids into Scotland, Ireland, and Wales, expanding the Viking influence and terrorizing the local populations.

Ruthless Reputation

Ivar's nickname, "the Ruthless," was well-earned. He was known for his brutality and cunning in battle. He often used deception and trickery to gain an advantage over his enemies. For example, in the Battle of York, Ivar pretended to negotiate with the city's leaders, only to launch a surprise attack when they opened the gates.

Ivar's ruthlessness also extended to his own followers. He was known for executing those who disobeyed him and punishing those who failed in battle. His reputation for cruelty kept his men in line and ensured their loyalty.

Rise to Power

After the death of his father, Ivar inherited a portion of the Viking kingdom and became a powerful chieftain. He ruled over parts of Denmark and Norway and continued to lead Viking raids across Europe.

Ivar's power and influence reached its peak in the late 870s when he allied with his brother Halfdan Ragnarsson to conquer Dublin, Ireland. They established a Viking kingdom in Dublin and ruled over Ireland for several years.

The End of an Era

In 878, Ivar was defeated in battle by the Anglo-Saxon king Alfred the Great at the Battle of Edington. Ivar was forced to withdraw from England and return to Dublin.

The defeat at Edington marked the beginning of the decline of Viking power in England and Ireland. Ivar continued to rule over Dublin until his death in 879. He was buried in a pagan mound outside the city.

Legacy of Ivar the Ruthless

Ivar the Ruthless remains a legendary figure in Viking history. He is remembered as a ruthless and skilled warrior who played a significant role in the expansion of Viking power and influence.

Ivar's ruthlessness and military prowess have been the subject of numerous stories, sagas, and legends. He is often depicted as a cruel and cunning Viking chieftain who used fear and deception to achieve his goals.