Final answer:
The Viking conversion refers to the period when the Vikings began to convert to Christianity and settle in the lands they had raided. This cluster of events occurred from the mid-tenth century to the eleventh century, and it brought about the end of the Viking raiding period.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Viking conversion refers to the period when the Vikings, who were initially fierce warriors and raiders, began to convert to Christianity and settle in the lands they had previously raided. This cluster of events occurred from the mid-tenth century to the eleventh century. Conversion to Christianity was a significant factor in ending the raiding period for the Vikings, as it led to the formation of more centralized kingdoms and the curbing of violence.
For example, Denmark became a stable kingdom under King Harald Bluetooth in 958, Norway under Olaf Tryggvason in 995, and Sweden under Olof Skötkonung in the same year. The Viking conversion also had cultural implications, as early Scandinavian churches were decorated with images from Norse mythology, showcasing the overlap between their existing traditions and the new religion.