Fief

A fief was a piece of land granted by a lord to a vassal in medieval Europe, typically in exchange for loyalty and service. It was part of the feudal system, where the lord held land and provided protection, while vassals managed the fief and its resources. In return, vassals owed military support and other obligations to their lord. This system structured society and economy during the Middle Ages, creating a network of relationships and responsibilities that defined power and land ownership at the time.