The feudal system was the dominant social, economic, and political system in medieval Europe. It emerged in the 9th century and gradually declined over the course of the 15th century, though some aspects of it persisted even longer.
Why did the feudal system develop?
The feudal system emerged in response to the decline of the Carolingian Empire, which had ruled much of Western Europe from the 8th to the 9th centuries. With the empire's collapse, Europe was plunged into a period of chaos and warfare. In order to provide for their own security, many landowners granted land to knights in exchange for military service. This practice gave rise to the feudal system, which was based on a hierarchy of lords and vassals.
At the top of the feudal hierarchy was the king. Below the king were the great lords, or barons, who held large estates and had many vassals. The barons swore fealty to the king and agreed to provide him with military service and assistance in governing the kingdom. In return, the king granted the barons land and other privileges.
Below the barons were the knights, who held smaller estates and swore fealty to a baron or other lord. Knights also provided military service to their lords, usually in the form of cavalry. In return, they received land and other privileges, such as the right to collect taxes from their peasants.
At the bottom of the feudal hierarchy were the peasants, who made up the vast majority of the population. Peasants were not free, but were bound to the land that they worked. They owed their lord labor service, which could include farming, building, and transporting goods. Peasants also paid their lord rents and other fees.
The feudal system helped to maintain social order and stability in Europe during the Middle Ages. It provided a framework for resolving disputes and distributing resources. However, the feudal system was also rigid and often oppressive. Peasants were exploited by their lords, and there was little opportunity for social mobility. As a result, the feudal system gradually declined over the course of the 15th century.