Erik the Red: Norse Explorer and Founder of Greenland Settlements

Life Summary

• Born: c. 950 in Iceland (Norwegian parents).
• Exiled from Iceland: c. 982 for manslaughter (3 years).
• Explored Greenland: During exile, surveyed west coast.
• Founded settlements: 985–986, led 25 ships (14 arrived) to Eastern Settlement (Brattahlíð) and Western Settlement.
• Died: c. 1003 in Greenland.

Legacy

• First permanent European in Greenland.
• Father of Leif Erikson, who reached North America (Vinland) c. 1000.
• Saga sources: Erik the Red's Saga, Greenlanders' Saga.

His nickname "the Red" likely refers to his hair/beard color and fiery temperament.