The Middle Ages

1. The Middle Ages

2. The Roman Empire falls apart. Charlemagne- tries to reunite parts of empire. Holy Roman Empire Endorsed by the Pope. The Vikings- Launch raids throughout much of Europe. Destroy many villages and cities. The “Dark” Ages

3. Fuedalism- a system for controlling land. King gives land in return for protection. Social Pyramid- formed the basic structure of medieval society. Key terms- Fief Nobles Vassals Knights Manors Serfs Life in the Middle Ages

4. Society in the Middle Ages

5. The Crusades • Series of holy wars between Christians and Muslim Turks for control of the Holy Land. • Area today of Jerusalem and Palestine. • Four major crusades were launched- in the end control of holy land is lost to Muslims. • Leads to many important changes throughout Europe.

6. The Black Death • Bacterial disease spread by rats and fleas. • Victims often died within days to one week. • Over 1/3 of European population died as a result of the plague- Over 25 million people! • In some cities almost 800 people a day died.

7. More Black Death • “Ring around the Rosie”- some people say this rhyme refers to the black death. Bubo-first sign

9. “Bring out your dead!”

10. The Doctor

12. The High Middle Ages • The Crusades had a HUGE effect on the growth of Europe. • Trade begins to grow • People want new goods from Asia- spices, gold, sugar, silk, and more. • The Silk Road- main route traveled by traders and merchants between China and Europe. • A new merchant class begins to grow into the social pyramid.

13. The power of kings and nobles begins to decrease. • Kingdoms begin to fall apart- replaced by national governments. • Large cities begin to grow- Paris, London, Rome. • Magna Carta- Document that limited the power of the king.

14. Education becomes increasingly important • More people learn to read and write- mainly to help with trade. • Books and literature become more widely available. • By the end of the1400’s, the Middle Ages come to an end.