Unit 1-6 Flashcards
What is feudalism?
A political and social system where monarchs grant land to lords in exchange for loyalty, and lords provide land and protection to vassals.
What was the manorial system?
A self-sufficient economic system where large estates (manors) provided all necessary goods, reducing the need for trade.
What was the three-field system?
A farming technique where land was divided into three sections: one for spring crops, one for fall crops, and one left fallow.
How did monarchies gain power in the later Middle Ages?
Monarchs built strong militaries and consolidated land into countries (e.g., France).
What was the Holy Roman Empire?
A political entity in Europe where the emperor was chosen by electors but had limited centralized power.
What was the significance of the Norman Conquest?
William the Conqueror invaded England, bringing feudalism and leading to the creation of the Magna Carta.
What was the impact of the Hundred Years’ War?
A long conflict between England and France that helped create national identities and introduced new military technologies like the longbow and gunpowder.
What was the Great Schism?
The split of Christianity into the Roman Catholic Church (West) and the Orthodox Church (East).
What role did monasteries play in medieval society?
They preserved knowledge, provided education, and supported agriculture.
What were the Crusades?
Religious wars between Christians and Muslims for control of the Holy Land, leading to increased trade and cultural exchange.
What were the effects of the Black Death?
Massive population loss, labor shortages, and social upheaval in Europe.
What was the Renaissance?
A revival of Greek and Roman culture, emphasizing humanism, art, and the printing press.
What was humanism?
A Renaissance intellectual movement focusing on human potential and achievements rather than religious doctrine.
What was the difference between the Northern and Southern Renaissance?
The Southern Renaissance (Italy & Spain) focused on classical culture, while the Northern Renaissance emphasized human concerns and social reform.
What was the origin of Russia?
It began as Kievan Rus, a trade center in present-day Ukraine, but was conquered and taxed by the Mongols before becoming Russia.
