The Early Middle Ages The Western Roman Empire Falls – 476 A.D. Europe is engulfed by warring Germanic Tribes – 500-650 A.D. Constant warfare and loss of a common language disrupts trade, urban markets and cities soon fall, population shifts to more rural areas, learning declines, and government become more local and family orientated. Muslims conquer Spain and Portugal – 700 A.D. Charles Martel defeats Muslim forces at the Battle of Tours – 732 A.D.

The Early Middle Ages Charlemagne becomes King of the Franks – 768 A.D. Charlemagne creates the largest empire of western Europe since the Roman period He creates a strong central government and revives learning throughout his empire. He spreads Christianity throughout northern Europe creating a unified Christian community. Charlemagne dies and Europe is helpless against the Viking onslaught – 814 A.D. Period of Viking Invasions – 800-1100 A.D.

Knights Knights were the mounted warriors of the Middle Ages Boys of noble birth trained from the age of 7 to about 21 Training was harsh but very effective and these warriors spent their lives fighting and training to fight. Even in times of little warfare knights still practiced their skills in tournaments, or contests of fighting skill.

Castles Were first built by powerful lords to protect their homes Over time they became larger and stronger Here are the different parts of a medieval castle: Castles

Siege Weapons With stronger defenses and fortifications came stronger weapons to overcome them. Siege weapons of the Middle Ages include: The Catapult The Battering Ram The Trebuchet

Chivalry This was a code of conduct developed for Medieval knights It required knights to be brave, loyal, and true to their word. Also called knights to fight fairly and treat their enemies with respect It also elevated the status of women and called for women to be protected and cherished