The Gentry

The gentry refers to a social class of land-owning individuals who were above common farmers and laborers but below the nobility. Historically, they often held local influence and wealth through their estates and social connections. In medieval and early modern societies, the gentry included knights, landowners, and wealthy professionals who played key roles in administration, politics, and local governance. Unlike titled nobles, many gentry members didn't possess hereditary aristocratic titles but maintained social status through land, wealth, and education. Their position helped bridge the gap between the ruling aristocracy and the common people.