Lesson 2: Feudalism and the Rise of Towns

Following the collapse of the Roman Empire and the invasions of the Vikings, Magyars, and Muslims, kings could no longer defend their lands. A decentralized political system called Feudalism emerged to provide protection. It was structured like a pyramid based on the exchange of land for Loyalty.

At the top was the monarch. To raise an army, the king granted large estates called Fiefs to powerful nobles. In exchange, these nobles became Vassals, swearing a sacred oath of Homage to protect the king. These powerful lords then divided their land among lesser lords, creating a complex web of loyalty and obligation that held society together.

Key Idea

In the feudal system, powerful lords granted land to lesser nobles called vassals. In exchange for this land, or fief, a vassal swore an oath of loyalty. This promise bound the vassal to serve the lord, especially by providing military support in times of war.

This military service was carried out by knights, who were armored warriors on horseback. Knights were expected to follow a code of conduct called chivalry. This code demanded bravery in battle, loyalty to their lord, and honorable treatment of others.

Key Idea

The entire feudal system rested on the hard work of peasants. Most peasants were serfs, who were legally bound to the lord's land and could not leave without permission. They were not slaves who could be bought and sold, but they were not free.

In return for a small plot of land to farm for their families, serfs spent most of their days working the lord's fields. This difficult labor produced all the food and goods needed to support the knights, lords, and the king.

Key Idea

Around the year 1000, farming in Europe improved dramatically. This period of innovation is known as the agricultural revolution. New tools, like the heavy plow, allowed farmers to cultivate more land. Using horses instead of oxen also made plowing faster and more efficient.

Farmers also adopted the three-field system, leaving one field unplanted each year to restore the soil. These changes created a surplus of food. With more to eat, the population of Europe grew steadily for the first time in centuries.