Feudalism Contextualization

First sentence

Following the fall of the Western Roman Empire in 476 CE, Western Europe entered a period of instability in c.500 CE known as the Dark Ages.

Second sentence

The Dark Ages were characterized by a social, political, and cultural decline.

Third sentence

As Germanic tribes overran former Roman territories, defenses had weakened over time.

Fourth sentence

As defenses were left in a fragmented state along with constant invasions from other tribes, European landowners were compelled to band together for protection.

Fifth & Sixth sentence

This process would be known as Feudalism, created 1000-1300 CE, intertwining with another system known as manorialism. This was the basis for many European societies.