Reviewer Flashcard: Early to High Medieval Ages

Front

What event is considered the start of the Early Medieval Ages?

Back

The fall of the Western Roman Empire

Answer explanation

The fall of the Western Roman Empire in 476 AD is widely regarded as the event that marks the beginning of the Early Medieval Ages, as it led to significant political and social changes in Europe.

Front

Which empire preserved Roman laws and traditions during the Early Medieval Ages?

Back

Byzantine Empire

Answer explanation

The Byzantine Empire, as the eastern continuation of the Roman Empire, preserved Roman laws and traditions during the Early Medieval Ages, maintaining legal and cultural continuity.

Front

What is the name of the legal code created by Emperor Justinian I?

Back

Justinian Code

Answer explanation

The legal code created by Emperor Justinian I is known as the Justinian Code. It was a comprehensive compilation of Roman law, distinct from the Twelve Tables, Code of Chivalry, and Canon Law.

Front

Who was crowned as the first Holy Roman Emperor in 800 CE?

Back

Charlemagne

Answer explanation

Charlemagne was crowned as the first Holy Roman Emperor by Pope Leo III on December 25, 800 CE, marking the revival of the Western Roman Empire and establishing a significant legacy in European history.

Front

What system of government dominated the Medieval Ages, characterized by a hierarchy of lords, vassals, and serfs?

Back

Feudalism

Answer explanation

Feudalism was the dominant system during the Medieval Ages, structured around a hierarchy where lords granted land to vassals in exchange for loyalty, while serfs worked the land, making it distinct from democracy, theocracy, or monarchy.

Front

What is manorialism?

Back

A self-sufficient agricultural system

Answer explanation

Manorialism is best described as a self-sufficient agricultural system where lords owned land and peasants worked it, producing everything needed for the community, thus minimizing reliance on external trade.

Front

Which event stopped the Muslim advance into Western Europe in 732?

Back

The Battle of Tours

Answer explanation

The Battle of Tours in 732 was a decisive conflict where Frankish leader Charles Martel halted the Muslim expansion into Western Europe, marking a significant turning point in European history.

Front

What role did monasteries play during the Early Medieval Ages?

Back

Centers of education and preservation of knowledge

Answer explanation

During the Early Medieval Ages, monasteries served as vital centers of education and preservation of knowledge, safeguarding texts and learning amidst societal upheaval, unlike military bases, marketplaces, or government seats.

Front

Which agricultural innovation of the High Medieval Ages allowed for more efficient farming?

Back

Heavy plow and horse collar

Answer explanation

The heavy plow and horse collar revolutionized farming in the High Medieval Ages by allowing deeper tilling of soil and more efficient use of horses for plowing, leading to increased agricultural productivity.

Front

What was the main purpose of the Crusades?

Back

To reclaim the Holy Land from Muslim control

Answer explanation

The main purpose of the Crusades was to reclaim the Holy Land from Muslim control, as European Christians sought to regain access to sacred sites in Jerusalem and surrounding areas.