feudalism Flashcards
king
Top of the feudal pyramid and was the one who owned the most land. He received taxes and rent from the lords/nobles.
lord
The men of the manor who oversaw all groups of people. They made sure there was order and protection of the manor. They reported to the king.
knights
Warriors who protected the manor in exchange for land (and the people on it). They were considered highly respected in society and had to follow a strict code of rules.
peasants
People who paid the noble to farm and own a small portion of land. Their life revolved around providing for the manor; however, they had some rights and freedoms, unlike the serfs.
serfs
People below the peasants who could not leave the manor or do much of anything without the lord’s approval. They worked directly for the lord/noble and were guaranteed protection.
manorial system
The economic relationship or exchange between lords and peasants. This ensured the peasants safety and provided the lords with the resources that they needed.
fief
The agreement which land and the people on it were granted to a vassal for their service.
manor
The land ruled by a king and ran by the nobles/lords. This included the castle (manor house), church, wind/water mill, farm fields and houses, stables, and more.
vassals
code of chivalry
The set of rules or laws that Knights were required to follow. This required them to have good behavior and be respectful to all, even when fighting.
fallow
The field area left empty or unplanted through crop rotation.
decline of feudalism
Crusades → Increased Trade
Using money system instead of land system
Transition to a central government & trade from the rise of towns and cities
Kings taking power back and removing power from the nobles
magna carta
The document developed by lords to limit the power of the kings/system of government and state that people have rights.
nation states
A territory with a centralized government (monarchy at the time), and people who feel connected due to a shared cultural trait and/or experience.
