The Middle Ages, also known as the Medieval period, spanned from the 5th to the 15th century. It was a time of significant historical and cultural change, marked by events such as the fall of the Western Roman Empire, the rise of feudalism, and the emergence of new kingdoms and empires.

During this period, Europe experienced a shift from a centralized imperial system to a fragmented feudal society. Feudalism became the prevailing social and economic system, based on the exchange of land for loyalty and service. Lords owned vast estates and granted land, called fiefs, to vassals in exchange for military support and other services.

One of the defining characteristics of the Middle Ages was the hierarchical social structure. At the top were kings and nobles, followed by knights and vassals, and at the bottom were the majority of people, known as serfs or peasants. The serfs worked the land, provided labor, and paid taxes to their lords in exchange for protection and the right to live on the land.

Throughout the Middle Ages, Europe witnessed the rise and fall of powerful empires and kingdoms, the construction of grand cathedrals and castles, as well as the spread of Christianity and the establishment of the Catholic Church as a dominant institution. The Middle Ages laid the foundation for the development of modern Europe and shaped its social, political, and cultural landscape.