Early Medieval period

The Early Medieval period, often called the Dark Ages, spanned roughly from the 5th to the 10th century in Europe, following the fall of the Western Roman Empire. It was marked by social, political, and economic upheaval, leading to the rise of feudalism, where land ownership determined power and status. This era saw the spread of Christianity, the establishment of monastic centers, and the beginnings of European kingdoms. Although often viewed as a time of cultural stagnation, it also laid the foundations for the later Middle Ages, including developments in art, literature, and governance.