Medieval Europe and The Black Death

Fall of the Roman Empire

The decline and eventual collapse of the Roman Empire around 476 AD, attributed to factors such as poor leadership, civil unrest, and invasions by barbarians.

Barbarians

Groups of people such as the Huns, Franks, and Saxons who were not part of the great civilizations (Roman, Greek, Egyptian) and played a significant role in the fall of the Roman Empire.

Charlemagne

A key king in medieval Europe known for spreading Christianity, encouraging education, and uniting Europe under his reign as Holy Roman Emperor.

Fealty

The loyalty sworn to a king by a lord or noble in the feudal system, requiring them to provide protection and support in exchange for land.

The Battle of Hastings

A pivotal battle in 1066 between Harold Godwinson and William of Normandy, resulting in William's victory and subsequent crowning as King of England.

Bayeux Tapestry

An embroidered cloth that chronicles the events leading up to the Norman conquest of England, created by the Normans and reflecting their perspective.

Feudalism

A social system in medieval Europe where land was held by lords in exchange for loyalty and service to the king, involving various social classes including peasants, nobles, and knights.

Crusades

A series of military campaigns from 1096 to 1291 with the aim of reclaiming the Holy Land from Muslim control, motivated by religious and economic factors.

Black Death

A devastating pandemic that struck Europe in the 14th century, leading to a significant population decline and major social and economic changes.

Knighthood

The status and privileges of a knight in medieval society, attained through a process including serving as a page and then squire before being dubbed a knight.