Early-Middle-Ages
The Early-Middle-Ages, often referred to as the "Dark Ages," is a period in European history that spans roughly from the 5th to the 10th century. This era follows the fall of the Western Roman Empire in 476 AD and precedes the High Middle Ages, characterized by significant political, social, and cultural transformations.
Political Landscape
- Fragmentation: After the fall of Rome, Europe fragmented into numerous small kingdoms and territories. Notable among these were the Merovingian Dynasty in France, the Visigothic Kingdom in Spain, and the Lombard Kingdom in Italy.
- Feudalism: The system of feudalism began to emerge as a way to organize society. Lords granted land (fiefs) to vassals in exchange for military service and loyalty, creating a hierarchical structure.
Social and Economic Changes
- Manorialism: Alongside feudalism, the manor system developed where serfs worked the land owned by lords, providing for themselves and the manor in exchange for protection and rights to use the land.
- Urban Decline: With the collapse of the Roman infrastructure, many cities declined or disappeared, leading to a predominantly rural society.
- Trade and Commerce: Trade was greatly reduced due to the lack of safety on roads, but local trade persisted, and some regions like the Byzantine Empire and parts of Italy maintained trade networks.
Cultural and Religious Developments
- Christianization: Christianity became more deeply rooted in Europe, with missionaries like Saint Patrick spreading the faith in Ireland and Saint Boniface in Germany. The Papacy gained influence, and monasticism, with figures like Benedict of Nursia, flourished.
- Learning and Education: Despite the common misconception of a complete intellectual decline, monastic schools preserved knowledge, and the Carolingian Renaissance under Charlemagne saw a revival in learning, arts, and architecture.
Military and Technological Developments
- Viking, Magyar, and Saracen Invasions: The era was marked by invasions from various groups like the Vikings from the North, the Magyars from the East, and the Saracens from the South, which influenced European military tactics and fortifications.
- Castle Building: The need for defense led to the construction of castles, which became symbols of power and military might.
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