1. The Middle Ages

2. 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

3. William the Conqueror 11th Century

4. Offering allegiance to the king or feudal lord

5. 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

6. The Crusades

7. Lucky warriors had horses to carry them—many walked to the Holy Land

9. 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

10. Parliament Magna Carta signed 1215 Granted rights to common people
Knights became representatives in Parliament

11. Belvoir Castle

14. Dover Castle

15. Leeds Castle

16. Nottingham Castle