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    Bluetooth is named after this Viking King

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    In todayโ€™s modern world, Bluetooth technology has become synonymous with wireless communication, connecting a multitude of devices from smartphones to speakers. But did you know that the name and logo of this ubiquitous technology were inspired by a 10th-century Viking king, Harald Bluetooth Gormsson?

    The Unifying Viking King

    Harald Bluetooth Gormsson, reigned over Denmark from around 958 to 986. He played a crucial role in unifying Denmark and its neighbors, modern-day Norway and Sweden. Not only did he strengthen the bonds between these territories, but he also helped Christianize Scandinavia. This ultimately paved the way for Denmark and the region to join medieval Europeโ€™s thriving economic and political landscape.

    How the nickname Bluetooth came to be

    The nickname โ€œBluetoothโ€ likely stemmed from Haraldโ€™s rotten tooth, which appeared blue or black. The first mention of this detail can be traced back to the 12th-century Chronicon Roskildense, a Latin chronicle recounting Danish historical events. However, the true origin of Haraldโ€™s discolored tooth remains uncertain. Some believe it was due to a fondness for blueberries, a fruit native to the Scandinavian lands.

    King Harald โ€œBluetoothโ€ united Norway and Denmark and introduced Christianity to his realm.

    Naming a New Technology

    In 1997, several major communication companies, including IBM, Intel, Ericsson, Nokia, and Toshiba, collaborated to develop a technology that would connect various devices. While enjoying a drink in a Toronto bar, two engineers from Intel and Ericsson bonded over their shared passion for history. As they did so, they stumbled upon the idea of naming their invention after the unifying Viking king, Harald Bluetooth.

    The engineers likened King Haraldโ€™s role in uniting Denmark and its neighbors to the technologyโ€™s ability to connect different devices in a single network. The code name โ€œBluetoothโ€ was initially intended to be temporary. However, the nameโ€™s powerful symbolism resonated with the projectโ€™s communication team. It was eventually retained as the official name when the technology was launched in 1998.

    Silver jewelry and coins from the reign of King Harald โ€œBluetooth.โ€
    This treasure was found by a 13 year using a metal detector.

    The Bluetooth logo, too, has its roots in Viking history. The symbol combines the runic initials of Harald Bluetooth. It hails from an alphabet used by the Germans and Scandinavians during the late antiquity and Middle Ages.

    One of the most significant archaeological traces of Harald Bluetoothโ€™s reign is the Jelling Stones complex in central Denmark. Haraldโ€™s father, Gorm the Old, erected the first carved stone in memory of his wife, Thyra. This was while Harald raised the second stone to honor his parents and celebrate his political achievements. This included the annexation of Norwegian and Swedish territories and the Christianization of the kingdom.

    Portrait of Harald Bluetooth, 1565-1585, via the National Museum of Denmark

    He later fell from power, when his son Sweyn Forkbeard forced him into exile. Despite this, Harald Bluetoothโ€™s legacy has persisted through time. His influence on Danish history and his association with the popular Bluetooth technology have ensured that this remarkable Viking king continues to be celebrated and remembered.


    ๐Ÿ“ˆ๐Ÿ˜ฒAdditional Fun Facts

    No Vikings

    Vikings likely didnโ€™t identify as such or recognize fellow Vikings. The term โ€œVikingโ€ referred to Scandinavians participating in overseas expeditions. During the Viking Age, Denmark, Norway, and Sweden consisted of various tribes. They were led by chieftains, often battling each other or engaging in foreign conflicts.

    Days of the Week

    Our days of the week are named after Viking gods. Wednesday comes from Odin (Wodenโ€™s Day). Tuesday and Friday from Tyr and Frigg (war god and marriage goddess). And finally, Thursday from Thor, the god of thunder and strength.

    2.4 Ghz

    Bluetooth operates on the 2.4 GHz frequency band. It is a globally available and unlicensed Industrial, Scientific, and Medical (ISM) radio band. This means that Bluetooth devices can be used without the need for acquiring a license or paying fees in most countries. This makes it an ideal choice for worldwide wireless communication between various devices. This universal compatibility has been a key factor in the widespread adoption of Bluetooth technology


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