Feudalism

Feudalism is a political, economical, and social system where the ruler controls his chiefdom by establishing a relationship in which he gives land to nobility in exchange for tribute, labor, and military service. While the king is authoritarian, nobles share a lot of exclusive power, followed by vassals. At the bottom of the social hierarchy are farmers who are "tied" to the land. The feudal system created a strong loyalty within each vassal but also rivalry and civil wars. Feudalism introduced contracts and the emergence of lawyers because of the relationship between king and nobles, nobles to vassals, and so on. This system was usually established in local areas but gradually developed in entire countries such as England and France; it was also amicable because feudalism gave the king high authority. This limited the voice and power from aristocracy and therefore led to the Magna Carta and the development of Parliament in England. The decline of feudalism was due greatly to the invention of the long bow. The weapon was easy to use and more effective. The need for many soldiers declined and kings were able to pay more enthusiastic and faithful soldiers rather than reluctant peasants. While feudalism declined in a horrendous upheaval, the system was a corner stone to for many countries' political success.

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Created by Christina Oelsner 10/21/08 Edited by Frances Grimball 10/22/08