110 likes | 221 Views
Early Middle Ages. Dark Ages. Time after Roman Empire fell They were cut off of more advanced civilizations Invaders came in, trade stopped and people left This time is also called the “ Middle Ages ”. Germanic Kingdoms. Came in and conquered parts of Europe after Roman Empire collapsed .
E N D
Dark Ages • Time after Roman Empire fell • They were cut off of more advanced civilizations • Invaders came in, trade stopped and people left • This time is also called the “Middle Ages”
Germanic Kingdoms • Came in and conquered parts of Europe after Roman Empire collapsed. • Goths, Vandals, Saxons and Franks • Mainly were farmers and herders • No written laws or cities • Smaller communities that government themselves
Charlemagne • Grandson of the king of the Franks • Briefly united Europe (where Italy, Germany and France are today) • He used Christianity and education to unify new nation
Vikings • Ended unified nation that Charlemagne built by taking over land • Originated in Scandinavia • Expert sailors, traders and explorers
Feudal System • Feudal system= based on social class and protection of land • Lesser lords, called vassals, pledged service and loyalty to the powerful lord • Feudal system was put in place for protection from invaders!
Knights and Nobles • A knight is a mounted warrior. Nobles trained for this at boyhood. • Fought on horseback with weapons • Wore armor and carried shields • Also fought in mock battles called tournaments • Defended castles owned by the lords
Noblewomen • Took over the “man” roles where they lived while they were off fighting • Supervised vassals, managed household and farming tasks • Could inherit land as part of their marriage dowry (gift) • Sent to be trained in basic fighting skills prior to marriage • Once married, expected to bear many children and be loyal to husband