The Vikings were key players in the development of Medieval Europe, but their role has often been ignored or misunderstood. Examine their role in a Common Core project that emphasizes a close reading of historical sources and concise writing. The VIkings historical role will be examined using the life of one Viking, Harald Hadrade, who traveled from Byzantium to England, from Italy to Sweden, and was instrumental in the conquering of England by William the Conqueror, in wont of his own defeat