1. Medievel Life Began in ad 900 when central government weakened and new political system developed Decentralized system that stressed alliances between monarchs and nobles King gave land in exchange for knights for armies ( homage ceremony) In return for fief (land estate with peasants) provided duties, including military service

2. Feudalism Vassels (lords, knights) served king and the vassal above them with peasants, serfs at the bottom Many nobles meant constant warfare Castles for defense Behavior of knights governed by code of chivalry (became basis of good manners in western society)

3. Manorial System Manors owned by feudal lords ( women had few rights) Manors were self-sufficient for protection Labor by peasants and serfs (most peasants were serfs) Serfs were bound to the land Poverty, disease, warfare were constant dangers Serfs lacked freedom and opportunity, but it did provide protection and created stability during violent time in history