Aud the Deep-Minded facts for kids

Aud the Deep-Minded (born around 834 AD, died around 900 AD) was a very important early settler in Iceland. She was a powerful and respected woman who led her family and followers on a long journey from Scotland and Norway to settle in a new land. Her story shows how strong and determined people were during the Viking Age.

Who Was Aud the Deep-Minded?

Aud was a remarkable woman from a noble family in Norway. Her father was Ketill Flatnose, a powerful chieftain. She was married to Olaf the White, who was a Viking king in Dublin, Ireland. After her husband and son died, Aud decided to leave the British Isles. She wanted to find a new home where her family could live freely and safely.

Aud's Incredible Journey to Iceland

Aud's journey was long and dangerous. She had a large ship built secretly in a forest. This ship was called a knarr, a type of Viking merchant ship. She took many family members, friends, and even some enslaved people with her. Aud freed these enslaved people once they reached Iceland, which was a very unusual and kind act for that time.

• Aud first sailed to the Orkney Islands.
• Then, she continued to the Faroe Islands.
• Finally, she reached Iceland, a land that was still largely unsettled.

Settling in Iceland: A New Beginning

When Aud arrived in Iceland, she claimed a large area of land in the western part of the country, in a place called Breiðafjörður. She chose this land carefully. She gave land to her followers and family members. This shows her leadership and how she cared for her community.

• Aud was a Christian, which was rare for a Viking leader at that time.
• She put up crosses on her land to mark her Christian faith.
• She is remembered for her strong beliefs and fair leadership.

Aud's Legacy and Impact

Aud the Deep-Minded is one of the most famous women in Icelandic history. She is often called one of the "landnámakonur" or "land-claiming women." Her story is told in the Icelandic Sagas, especially in the Landnámabók (Book of Settlements).

Why Was Aud So Important?

Aud's story is important for several reasons:

• Leadership: She led a large group of people across the ocean to a new land. This shows incredible courage and skill.
• Fairness: She freed her enslaved people, giving them land and a new life. This was very progressive for her time.
• Influence: Many of the early settlers of Iceland were her descendants or people who came with her. Her family line became very important in Iceland.
• Christianity: She brought Christianity to Iceland, even though most Vikings were still pagan.

What Does "Deep-Minded" Mean?

The nickname "Deep-Minded" suggests that Aud was wise, thoughtful, and had good judgment. It means she was intelligent and made smart decisions. This nickname fits her well, given her successful journey and settlement in Iceland.

See Also

• Icelandic Sagas
• Viking Age
• Settlement of Iceland