The word "Varangian" is derived from the Old Norse word "væringja", which means "sworn men" or "oath-sworn men". It is believed to be derived from the Proto-Norse word wær-ingaR, meaning "those who swear".
Varangians were elite foreign mercenaries who served in the Byzantine Empire from the 9th to the 11th centuries. They were primarily of Scandinavian origin, but also included other Germanic and Slavic peoples. Varangians were renowned for their strength, bravery, and loyalty. They served as the personal bodyguards of the Byzantine emperors and were also deployed in various military campaigns.
The Varangians originated from the Viking raids and conquests of the 9th and 10th centuries. As Viking power declined in the Baltic Sea and Eastern Europe, many Vikings sought employment in the Byzantine Empire. The Byzantine emperors were eager to recruit these skilled warriors to serve in their armies.
The Varangians were initially employed as bodyguards for the emperor, but their role gradually expanded to include other military duties. They served as heavy infantry, cavalry, and naval troops. Varangians were also used to quell internal rebellions and to defend the empire's borders.
Over time, the Varangians became an integral part of the Byzantine army. They served with distinction in many key battles, including the Battle of Manzikert in 1071. However, the Varangian Guard declined in importance in the 12th century as the Byzantine Empire faced increasing pressure from its enemies.
The legacy of the Varangians lives on in the modern world. The Swedish Royal Guards are known as "Svea livgarde" or "Svear lifeguard", a reference to the Swedish Varangians who served in the Byzantine Empire. Additionally, the name "Varangian" is still used to describe elite military units in various countries today.
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