Erik the Red
explorer and founder of the first viking settlement in Greenland
950 — 1003
Quick Facts
Profession
explorer and founder of the first viking settlement in Greenland
Born
January 1, 950
Died
1003 (age ~53)
Name Origin
English
Timeline
conquistador, warrior, settler
NorwayBorn in JærenDied in Brattahlíð
950
Born in Jæren (0950-01-01)
1003
Died in Brattahlíð
About
Erik Thorvaldsson, known as Erik the Red, was a Norse explorer, described in medieval and Icelandic saga sources as having founded the first European settlement in Greenland. He most likely earned the epithet "the Red" due to the color of his hair and beard.
Read more on Wikipedia →Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Erik the Red?+
Erik Thorvaldsson, known as Erik the Red, was a Norse explorer, described in medieval and Icelandic saga sources as having founded the first European settlement in Greenland. He most likely earned the epithet "the Red" due to the color of his hair and beard.
What does the name Erik mean?+
The name Erik means "A male given name from Old Norse, variant of Eric.. Etymology: A spelling variant of Eric, or directly borrowed from modern Erik.". It is of English origin.
When was Erik the Red born?+
Erik the Red was born on January 1, 950.
When did Erik the Red die?+
Erik the Red died in 1003, at approximately 53 years of age.
Name Meaning
A male given name from Old Norse, variant of Eric.. Etymology: A spelling variant of Eric, or directly borrowed from modern Erik.
The name Erik is of English origin, meaning "A male given name from Old Norse, variant of Eric.. Etymology: A spelling variant of Eric, or directly borrowed from modern Erik.". It is traditionally a male name.
Other famous people named Erik
Erik Houdini
Hungarian-born American illusionist, escapologist, and stunt performer (1874–1926)
Erik Axel Karlfeldt
Swedish poet (1864–1931)
Erik Rosberg
German–Finnish former Formula 1 racing driver
Erik Erikson
American German-born psychoanalyst & essayist
Erik Pääbo
Swedish geneticist (born 1955)
Erik Lamela
Argentine association football player
Erik — January 1, 950
Zodiac & Calendar Signs
Western Zodiac
Capricorn
Ambitious, disciplined, patient
Earth · Saturn · Dec 22 – Jan 19
Chinese Zodiac
Dog
Loyal, honest, kind
Metal · Yang
Mayan Tzolkin
7 Etznab
Mirror — clarity, truth, reflection
Celtic Tree
Birch
Ambitious, driven, charming
Ogham: Beith · Dec 24 – Jan 20
Birthstone: Garnet — Protection, strength
Would you name your baby Erik?
Guestbook
Crowns are heavy. You wore yours well.
— a historian
Legend.
— anon
Actions