Student Question
How did the Crusades weaken the Feudal system?
Quick answer:
The Crusades weakened the feudal system by causing many lords and knights to leave their estates, leading to a power vacuum as many were killed in battle. Peasants who participated demanded higher wages upon returning. Additionally, the return of Crusaders brought the Bubonic Plague, devastating populations and eroding faith in religious and governmental institutions. This loss of faith and social upheaval contributed to the decline of feudalism.
Many historians see the Crusades as the event that had the greatest impact in bringing an end to the medieval system of feudalism. During the Crusades, many of the manor lords and knights left their estates to fight in the war. Peasants also participated and received higher wages. As a result, the peasants demanded higher wages when they returned from battle. It is also important to note that many lords and knights were killed in battle and a power vacuum existed in the system.
The Crusaders brought back with them a terrible disease that had devastating effects on Europe. The Bubonic Plague killed half of the populations of some urban areas in Europe. The pope and the kings watched hopelessly and could do nothing to stop the death. The people lost faith in the institutions of religion and government and no longer could accept the social system of feudalism.
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