In the early 14th century, Europe was on the cusp of a significant transformation. The Black Death had ravaged the continent, leaving in its wake a trail of destruction and chaos. Amidst this turmoil, a new era of cultural, economic, and social change began to take shape.
The Middle Ages, as it would come to be known, was marked by the rise of cities, the growth of trade, and the emergence of a more complex and interconnected society.
The Crusades had a profound impact on the Middle Ages. The brutal conflicts not only ravaged the Holy Land but also led to the displacement of countless people and the destruction of entire communities.
As a result, the social fabric of Europe was forever altered, leading to increased tensions between different groups and the rise of anti-Semitism.
In the aftermath of the Crusades, feudalism began to take hold. This system, where lords granted land to vassals in exchange for loyalty and military service, created a rigid social hierarchy.
As a result, the peasantry was bound to the land, and any attempts at rebellion were brutally suppressed.