6.2 Feudalism

political system based on bonds of loyalty between lords and vassals

• communism

• socialism

• oligarchy

• totalitarianism

• feudalism

Answer explanation

The political system described is feudalism, characterized by the relationships of loyalty and service between lords and vassals, where land is exchanged for military support and allegiance.

a noble in feudalism who held land from and served a higher-ranking lord, and in return was given protection

• vassal

• fief

• knight

• serf

• guild

Answer explanation

A vassal is a noble in feudalism who holds land from a higher-ranking lord and serves them in exchange for protection. This definition directly matches the question, making 'vassal' the correct answer.

under feudalism, the land a lord granted to a vassal in exchange for military service and loyalty

• vassal

• fief

• knight

• serf

• guild

Answer explanation

Under feudalism, a 'fief' is the land granted by a lord to a vassal in exchange for military service and loyalty. This term specifically refers to the landholding arrangement, distinguishing it from other roles like vassal or knight.

a noble warrior who fought on horseback in the Middle Ages

• vassal

• fief

• knight

• serf

• guild

Answer explanation

A knight was a noble warrior who fought on horseback during the Middle Ages, distinguishing them from vassals, serfs, and guild members, who had different roles in the feudal system.

a peasant laborer bound by laws to the lands of a noble

• vassal

• fief

• knight

• serf

• guild

Answer explanation

A serf is a peasant laborer who is bound to the land and under the control of a noble, making 'serf' the correct answer. Other options like vassal, knight, and guild do not fit this specific definition.

a medieval business group formed by craftspeople and merchants

• vassal

• fief

• knight

• serf

• guild

Answer explanation

A guild is a medieval business group formed by craftspeople and merchants, aimed at regulating trade and maintaining standards. The other options (vassal, fief, knight, serf) do not represent such organizations.

What was typically found at the center of feudal territories?

• city

• a noble's castle or fortress

• a cathedral

• a church

Answer explanation

At the center of feudal territories, a noble's castle or fortress served as the primary stronghold and administrative center, providing protection and governance, unlike cities or churches which were secondary in importance.

A vassal showed loyalty by . . .

• paying taxes

• serving in the lord's army

• attending mass with the lord every Sunday

• working 7 days a week in the lord's business

Answer explanation

A vassal showed loyalty primarily by serving in the lord's army, which was a key obligation in the feudal system, demonstrating their commitment to protect and support their lord.

Which innovation of horse riding around AD 700 made it possible for an armored knight to ride on a horse?

• the saddle

• the reins

• the stirrup

• horse collar

Answer explanation

The stirrup, developed around AD 700, allowed armored knights to secure their feet while riding, providing stability and control. This innovation was crucial for effective mounted combat, making it possible for knights to ride and fight effectively.

a poor farmer of low social status who owns or rents a small piece of land for cultivation

• vassal

• fief

• knight

• peasant

• guild

Answer explanation

A peasant is a poor farmer of low social status who typically owns or rents a small piece of land for cultivation. This definition directly matches the description given in the question.