Introduction

What is the Feudal System?

The Feudal system (few-dul) was a system that was mostly used from the 9th century to the 15th century during the Medieval Ages, which had knights and swords! It was a really REALLY long time ago! Its the way the life was set, and the way life was meant to be lived. It told your role in the city!

So how was the Feudal System structured?

The Feudal system was built so that those with more power, and more money, were on top of the system. It wasn't very nice, but it was a system that was understood, so it was used.

Who was on the top?

In any form of the system, the King was always on top! He had total control over everyone below him, and could tell everyone what to do! He didn't have any rules at first, so he could do whatever he wanted! But then, a set of rules came out that basically told the King no, that he couldn't do anything he wanted! This set of rules was called Magna Carta.

Ok! I get it.. But then who was next?

Next was the Barons, or the Lords. These people had much land,and usually were rich. They gave loyalty to the king, in order for land to give to people that come after them. they usually have people who work for them, and give the king military access.

Alright, so Kings, Barons... then what?

Well, next we have the knights! The knights were loyal to their barons or lords, and served in their forces. They protected those weaker then them such as peasents, women, and children. They are parts of the kings military, and protected from attacks on the towns.

Ok! The Kings, Then the Barons, and then the Knights! Is that it?

Theres one more! Your almost done! Lastly we've got the Serfs, or the peasants! These are the people who work for the barons, usually on the fields. They would grow crops, work, and pay taxes in return for place to sleep, and protection from ambushes or attacks.

​I've got it! The Kings, The Barons, The Knights, Then the Peasants!

Now you know the Feudal System! It's going to hep you in social studies in the future, and is some cool knowledge to tell your family! Now, Let's test what you learned!