Unit 5 Vocab Middle Ages

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Middle Ages

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Time period between 600-1300 AD (between Ancient and Modern times). Came after the fall of Western Roman Empire. Also referred to as Medieval Times or Dark Ages.

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Feudalism

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An economic, political, and social system in which land is owned by kings or lords but managed by vassals in exchange for their loyalty, including taxes, military men, and resources if needed.

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Lord (noble)

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Powerful people who owned a manor and gave land to vassals.

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Vassal

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People who agreed to manage the land and resources for a lord in exchange for a portion of the land.

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Manor

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Large agricultural estate ruled by lords and vassals; self-sufficient and self-contained.

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Fief

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Term for land in the feudal system.

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Serf

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Farm worker on the manor considered to be part of the manor itself, similar to a slave.

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Peasant

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Worker on the manor who had the freedom to leave or make choices.

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Knight

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People who would receive honor and land in exchange for serving their lord in the military.

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Clergy

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Persons with authority to perform Christian (Catholic) religious services, including priests, bishops, and the Pope.