The French region of Normandy gets its name from Norman invaders who plagued France during the 9th century. After the death of Charlemagne Viking raids in France became common. In an effort to stave off these attacks the fiefdom of Normandy was given to the Viking leader Hrolfr, known as Rollo the Dane. 

[Picture: Statue of Rollo, Duke of Normandy, in Rouen, France.]