Feudalism and Its Societal Impacts

Feudalism in Western Europe was a hierarchical system with military and economic obligations, flourishing from the 8th century under Charlemagne. It involved monarchs, nobles, knights, and peasants, each with specific roles. The system began to decline after the Black Death, leading to economic changes and the rise of early capitalism.

What was a significant consequence of the Roman Empire's division for Western Europe?

• The unification of Germanic tribes under Roman rule

• The decline of the Western Roman Empire due to invasions

• The prosperity of the Western Roman Empire

• The rise of centralized Roman authority

How did Charlemagne ensure the loyalty of his nobles?

• By granting them complete autonomy

• Through religious ceremonies

• By allowing them to choose their own kings

• Through a centralized spy service and legal system

What was the primary economic basis of feudalism in Western Europe?

• Trade and commerce

• Agriculture

• Industrial production

• Mining

What role did the Catholic Church play in the feudal system?

• It collected taxes directly from peasants

• It granted divine right to kings

• It provided military support to the king

• It had no involvement in feudal matters

Who were considered vassals in the feudal hierarchy?

• Clergy

• Peasants

• Knights

• Nobles

What was the primary duty of knights in the feudal system?

• To oversee religious ceremonies

• To manage agricultural production

• To provide military service

• To collect taxes

What was the purpose of tournaments for knights?

• To negotiate with peasants

• To establish new laws

• To develop and promote chivalry

• To practice farming techniques

What was a common form of tax payment by peasants to their lords?

• Religious artifacts

• Military service

• A portion of their produce

• Gold coins

How did the Black Death impact the labor system in Europe?

• It increased the number of serfs

• It led to a decrease in wages

• It resulted in a shift to a wage system

• It caused a return to barter trade

What societal change occurred as feudalism declined in Europe?

• The complete abolition of agriculture

• The establishment of a new monarchy

• The rise of early capitalist structures

• A return to feudal practices