Critical Vocabulary Unit 3

Justinian’s Code Simplified version of Roman law created by Emperor Justinian of the Byzantine Empire.

Islam A monotheistic religion created by Muhammad during the 7th Century AD. Characteristics: Five Pillars, Sharia, Koran, and Mosques.

Political system based on an exchange of land for loyalty Feudalism Political system based on an exchange of land for loyalty

Manoralism The organizing principal of rural economy during feudalism. Characterized by small, self sufficient villages called Manors.

Professional Church leaders Clergy Professional Church leaders

Canon Law Laws of the Catholic Church. Punishments include excommunication and interdict.

Magna Carta A legal document signed in 1215 by King John in England. Limited power of the king by creating a Parliament (A group of citizens who have a say in the government).

The Great Schism The original split in the Christian church in 1054. The Roman Catholic church in Western Europe and the Eastern Orthodox Church in Eastern Europe emerged. Split was caused by theological disputes.

Crusades A series of holy wars between Christians and Muslims over control of the Holy Land (Jerusalem).

Black Death A plague that spread along the trade routes from Asia to Europe. Killed up to 1/3 of the human population in the known world of that time.

Hundred Years War War between England and France over the French throne. France wins and leads to feelings of Nationalism in both countries.