European Feudalism

European feudalism was a social and economic system dominant in medieval Europe, roughly from the 9th to 15th centuries. It was structured around a hierarchy of landholding and reciprocal loyalty. Kings granted large estates to nobles (lords), who in turn granted portions to vassals or knights in exchange for military service. Peasants or serfs worked the land, producing food and goods, and in return received protection and a place to live. This system created a largely localized society where land and duty defined relationships, emphasizing hierarchy, loyalty, and mutual obligations.