AP World Terms & Defs

Feudalism

a system in medieval Europe where land was owned by lords who granted parts of it to vassals in exchange for loyalty and military service. Peasants worked the land and provided food in return for protection. It created a social hierarchy based on land ownership and obligations.

Urbanization

when more people move from the countryside to cities, causing cities to grow larger and more developed.

Serfdom

a system where peasants are tied to the land they work on and are not free to leave. They must serve the landowner and provide labor or goods in exchange for protection and a place to live.

The Renaissance

a period in Europe, roughly from the 14th to the 17th century, when there was a revival of interest in art, science, and culture. It marked a shift from the Middle Ages to a focus on humanism, creativity, and classical knowledge.

The Crusades

A series of Holy Wars where Christians attempted to reclaim the Holy Land.

4th Crusade- who was involved?

Orthodox Christians (Constantinople) vs. Roman Catholic (Western Europe)

Bureaucracy

a system of government or organization where decisions are made by officials rather than by elected representatives

Cultural Assimilation

when a person or group adopts the customs, values, and behaviors of another culture, often losing some of their original cultural identity in the process.