Norman feudalism

Norman feudalism emerged after the Norman Conquest of England in 1066. It was a hierarchical system of land ownership and duties where the king granted land to nobles (lords) in exchange for military service. These lords, in turn, allowed vassals (lesser nobles or knights) to use portions of their land, providing them with protection and governing their actions. In exchange, vassals owed loyalty and military aid to their lords. Peasants, or serfs, worked the land and paid rents, often in exchange for protection. This system established strong ties of loyalty and created a structured society based on land and service.