Feudalism

Christendom- combination between Christianity and kingdom

Some churches expect (tithes)- giving 10% of what you make to the Church

Eastern empire was referred to as the Byzantine empire

People weren't writing or reading or progressing in this time

Civilization took a step backwards

Feudalism: a political, military and economic system based on land-holding and protective alliances 

 In other words: the system is based on personal loyalty to people who can help you

- Rich Dude (LORD): "I own land; i need people to help me work it and defend it."

- he needs VASSALS: toughest of the tough who end up becoming knights 

- people who have other qualities (farmers, craftsman) SURFS

Pyramid:

King- the most powerful vassals. The only people who answer to him are the nobles and bishops 

Knights- mounted warriors who receive FIEFS for defending their lord's land (land)

Peasants- mostly surfs. Landless, powerless, money less, rights-less and just working the land for "the man" (their lord)

Manor: the lord's estate 

- the lord's manor house

- a church

-some workshops

- 15-30 families

- all on a few square miles 

Good News: it's a self-sufficient community

Bad news: it's harsh if you're a peasant 

peasants are poor and pay high taxes:

- tax on grain

- tax on marriage

- church tax (tithe= 10% of their income)

They lived in crowded cottages

lived with animals and insects

eat very simply

The Church says this is your lot in life

God determines your place in society