Norwegian Nobility - Ancient Aristocracy Overseas

Ancient Aristocracy Overseas

See also: Norse activity in the British Isles, Scandinavian Scotland, Scandinavian York, Early Scandinavian Dublin, Lord of the Isles, Lord of Galloway, Diocese of Sodor and Man, and Norse-Gaels

Primarily between the 800s and the 13th century, (vassal) kingdoms and earldoms were created overseas. Norwegian aristocracy was thus not limited to mainland Norway, but appeared in and ruled parts of the British Isles as well as Iceland and the Faroe Islands. Among the entities established or possessed by Norwegians, were the Kingdom of Dublin (839–1171), the Kingdom of Mann and the Isles (836–1164), the Earldom of Orkney (800s–1470), and the Mormaerdom of Caithness (900s–1476).

Some aristocratic families in the British Isles are of Norse origin, among others the Cotter family in Ireland.