What Is Feudalism?

Feudalism Is the system of government that was used in Europe in Medieval times. In Feudalism there were different classes. The top class was the Kings a Queens. The high middle class was the Nobles. The low middle class was the Knights. The lowest class was the Peasants.     

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Kings and Queens

The Kings and Queens had the most amount of power. They had control over everyone but the Pope and other Kings. They also were usually the wealthiest of all the classes. The Kings and Queens had lots of political power. Until the Magna Carta was signed, limiting the power of a King or Queen, a King or Queen could just about anything they wanted.


See Magna Carta for more info about the limitations.

http://www.pillagedvillage.com/images/art/costume1/Frankish_King_and_Queen_1.jpg

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Nobles

Nobles were usually the second richest class and were given land by the King as long as the swore to help protect the him. A Noble also held some political power in Medieval times. A Noble could hire Knights to protect him. These Knights had to swear loyalty to the Noble. Nobles control, not only the Knights they hire, but the peasants on their land that did not sell. Even though the Nobles controlled the peasants on their land, he  could not trade them.  





http://www.pillagedvillage.com/images/art/costume1/Knight_and_Noble_Maiden.jpg

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Knights

Knights were second lowest class in Feudalism. Knights did not have very much money, but had land they were given by a Noble.The Knights were charged with protecting that land. Knights were also a used as an army for the King. If the King wanted to invade another  King's land, he would call all of the Knights, from every lord, to come and fight. The Knights were then in the war till it ended. Knights could also be in tournaments. In tournaments, Knights would do mock battles, jousting and many other sports. In these games it was likely for a knight to be seriously injured or die.




http://www.pillagedvillage.com/images/art/costume1/Knight_and_Noble_Maiden.jpg 

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Peasants

Peasants were the lowest class in the Feudal system. Most Peasants would work on land. The Peasants that worked on land were called Serfs. Serfs worked on land owned by Nobles or Knights. The Serfs  worked on the land harvesting and planting food. They also could be called to war if needed. A serf was bound to the land, meaning Nobles could not trade or sell them to other Nobles. Serfs were very important. Serfs got the food for the Nobles and King and in return got protection from any invaders.


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