Introduction to the Middle Ages

Drill & Objective Objective Students will be able to explain why the Fall of the Roman Empire brought about the emergence of the Middle Ages. Drill Draw a KWL Chart. Tell me what you know and want to know about the Middle Ages.

3 Eras in the Study of History Ancient History Everything we have done so far Range: 1 st Human History  Early Middle Ages The Middle Ages This Chapter – One of the most interesting time periods in history Range: Fall of Roman Empire  Renaissance Modern History Where we will spend most of the year Range: The Renaissance & Beyond

A Brief History Fall of the Roman Empire Divide into East & West Decline in morals & values Public Health Political Corruption Inflation Unemployment Urban Decay Inferior Technology Military Spending The Barbarians Invade Germanic Tribes from the North began to make their move into the Empire The Huns – Pushed Germanic Tribes into Roman Territory – For a short time, became allies of Rome, but soon revolted – Visigoths, Vandals, Ostrogoths, Franks and Angles/Saxons The Rise of Islam Led to a series of wars known as the Crusades

The Crusades Byzantine Empire Justinian – Emperor who wanted to reestablish the Roman Empire » Was mostly successful until Lombards conquered Italy – Known for Codifying Roman Law New Threat from the East – Islam » Unified Arab groups & created a powerful new force » The threatened the Christian Byzantine Empire

The Crusades A series of military expeditions carried out by European Christians against the Muslims Pope Urban II – Used is power to rally European warriors to liberate Jerusalem 4 Crusades from The only successful one was the 1st

Pope Urban II calls the first Crusade

" Jerusalem is now held captive by the enemies of Christ, those who do not know God, the heathen (non Christians). Jerusalem wants to be free and begs you to come help! Who will take up this work, who will right these wrongs who will recover this territory, if you won't ?"

Reasons for the Crusades Holy Land was holy to Christians, Jews and Muslims (especially Jerusalem) Place where Jesus was born and died Looking for adventure and riches Few opportunities in feudal Europe Hatred of Muslims

Effects of Crusades fatal weakening of Byzantine Empire increase in cultural horizons for many Europeans stimulated Mediterranean trade. development of banking techniques Rise of heraldic emblems, coats of arms Romantic and imaginative literature

Effects of Crusades Knowledge introduced to Europe Heavy stone masonry, construction of castles and stone churches. Siege technology, tunneling, sapping. Moslem minarets adopted as church spires Weakening of nobility, rise of merchant classes Enrichment was primarily from East to West--Europe had little to give in return.