England's feudal system

England's feudal system, developed after the Norman Conquest in 1066, was a social and economic hierarchy where land ownership and duty defined people's roles. The king owned all land and granted large portions to nobles (lords) in exchange for military service. Lords divided their land among lesser nobles (vassals), who in turn provided for knights. Peasants, or serfs, worked the land and provided services in return for protection and a place to live. This system created a structured society where loyalty and obligations were key, fostering a chain of relationships foundational to medieval England's governance and economy.