The Middle Ages 1066-1485
The Norman Conquest William the Conqueror defeats Harold at the Battle of Hastings and claims English throne—1066 England assimilates French culture feudalism: land parceled out to lords who supported Norman king chivalry: knights vowed to be honorable, generous, brave, skilled warriors, respectful to women, helpful to the weak
William the Conqueror 11th Century
Offering allegiance to the king or feudal lord
The Crusades Turks capture Jerusalem in 11th century Pope Urban II calls for crusade to reclaim Holy Land Peasants and lords alike charge into battle Crusades rage from 1095 to 1270
The Crusades
Lucky warriors had horses to carry them—many walked to the Holy Land
Middle Aged Growing Pains Edward III kept country at war with France The Black Death killed almost one third of English population Arguing among potential popes caused a lack of respect for church Towns were growing, feudal system faded
Parliament Magna Carta signed 1215 Granted rights to common people Knights became representatives in Parliament
Belvoir Castle
Dover Castle
Leeds Castle
Nottingham Castle