Middle Ages Middle Ages- is a time when the Roman Empire was in decline and new institutions slowly emerged to replace the Roman Empire.

Middle Ages a.k.a. Dark Ages Disruption of Trade (loss of a common language) Downfall of Cities (cities were abandoned as centers of administration) Population Shifts (nobles retreated to rural areas and cities had no leadership)

Carolingian Empire Most successful empire since the collapse of Rome Charlemagne takes over his father’s kingdom Pepin the Short Charlemagne strengthened European economic and political life Promoted the cultural revival known as the Carolingian Renaissance Treaty of Verdun divides Charlemagne’s empire among his three grandsons.

Byzantine Empire The western Roman Empire crumbled in the 5 th century as it was overrun by invading Germanic tribes. The eastern half of the empire continued to prosper and a separate government and difficult communications with the West gave the Byzantine Empire it’s own character. In the Byzantine Empire few spoke Latin, most people spoke Greek. The Byzantine Empire belonged to the eastern branch of the Christian Church.

To be entered at school…

Vikings Vikings are Scandinavian warriors who raided the coasts of Europe and the British Isles from the 9 th cent.- 11 th cent. There was no organized defense against these savage warriors and their hit and run raids. At the beginning of the Viking Age they were the best ship builders and sailors in the world. They wore metal helmets decorated with pictures of animals.

Feudalism The largest raids were coming between 850 and 950 A.D. Feudalism- Resulted as a form of defense for both the nobility and peasants from these barbarian attacks.

Feudal Society The middle ages were characterized by a chronic absence of effective central government and the constant threat of famine, disease, and foreign invasion. In this state of affairs the weaker sought the protection of the stronger, and the true lords and masters became those who could guarantee immediate protection from starvation and invasion. In a feudal society, what people require most is the firm assurance that others can be depended on time of need. It is above all a system of mutual rights and responsibilities.

Feudal Hierarchy Kings- Were on top of the hierarchy they ruled the land. Lords/Vassals/Church Officials- Next were the land owners, in exchange for military protection and other services a landowner, granted land called a fief. Knights- Serve the vassal in exchange for land. In return, they offer their military service. Peasants/Serfs- On the bottom of the hierarchy, worked the land of a lord in the exchange for food, shelter, and protection. Peasants and serfs did not fight.

Ticket Out Work with a partner to draw up a contract between a lord and a vassal, such as a knight or between the lord of a manor and a serf. Include the responsibilities, obligations and rights of each party.