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The most famous and brutal of Viking warriors were ‘Berserkers’. From them, we get the word ‘berserk’ today. They were known to fight in a fierce frenzy, believing that they could not be wounded. What do some historians feel is the secret to their battlefield ferocity and brutality?

Answer: Mushrooms, in particular one called ‘fly agaric’. Berserkers felt it gave them magical powers. As an hallucinogenic drug, it most likely fueled their rage and aggression.

Source: The Crafts and Culture of the Vikings by Joann Jovinelly and Jason Netelkos

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