1. The Medieval Social Pyramid
Feudalism
The Medieval Social Pyramid

2. Kings and Queens Early, did not have much power
Lost power as people were afraid of invaders (Vikings)
The people turned to the Nobles (Lords, Knights, and Vassals) for protection

3. Lords Had all the power Knights and Vassals are loyal to them
Owned all of the land
Governed and protected people for a portion of the goods produced
Often fought against each other for land

4. Vassals and Knights Vassals Lower ranking nobles
Swore an oath to the Lord
Protected the Lords Manor during times of battle
Knights
Lower level Vassals
In exchange for protecting the Lord’s land, they were given parts of the manor complete with serfs and peasants
Essentially a private army for the Lord

5. Serfs and Peasants Simple lives: Farmed and raised animals
Did not own any land and never would
Parents are poor, children are poor, grandchildren are poor…
Never ending cycle of poverty
Never would be wealthy, because they never owned land
Had to work the noble’s lands and a portion of all crops went to the noble

6. Feudalism Positives negatives Gave stability
Allowed for protection from invaders
Created a social order
One unifying force across Europe is the Catholic Church (Christianity)
Everyone from Kings to Serfs
No opportunity for a better life for serfs or peasants
Rich stayed rich, poor stayed poor
Lords could basically do what they wanted
Everyone broken up and doing their own thing