Understanding Feudalism

Feudalism, a term coined in the 19th century, describes the societal structure of the high middle ages, characterized by land exchange for services. The system was hierarchical, with the king at the top, followed by great lords, lesser lords, and peasants. However, this model oversimplifies the complex relationships, which were often horizontal among equals. The decline of feudalism was due to factors like the rise of professional armies, the Black Death, and the growth of towns. Feudalism was formally abolished in England in 1660, with other European countries following later.

What century did the term 'feudalism' originate in?

• 19th century

• 21st century

• 18th century

• 20th century

In the feudal system, who was at the top of the pyramid?

• The Church

• The Peasants

• The King

• The Vassals

What term describes the land granted to a vassal?

• Territory

• Domain

• Fief

• Estate

Which of the following is a misconception about feudal relationships?

• They required military support

• They involved land exchange

• They could be horizontal

• They were always vertical

What event significantly reduced the population and weakened feudalism?

• The Renaissance

• The Crusades

• The Black Death

• The Hundred Years' War

Which factor contributed to the decline of feudalism by providing kings with professional soldiers?

• The rise of towns

• The development of professional armies

• The Black Death

• The growth of trade

When was feudalism formally abolished in England?

• 1789

• 1660

• 1861

• 1300

Which country abolished feudalism after the 1789 revolution?

• Russia

• Scotland

• France

• England

When did Russian peasants gain freedom from feudalism?

• 1861

• 2000

• 1660

• 1789

In what year did the Scottish Parliament finally abolish the last traces of feudalism?

• 2004

• 2000

• 1861

• 1789