1. The Middle Ages in Europe
This era began with the fall of the Roman Empire.
Medieval is a Latin word meaning “Middle Ages”
This period is also known as “The Dark Ages”

2. The Byzantine Empire
The Emperor Justinian organized laws into code. Take three notes from this video.
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3. Franks, Vikings and Other Invaders
The arrival of invaders changed the face of Western Europe.

4. Medieval Society
Most people were not kings, warriors, traders or explorers-they were farmers.
The medieval political and social system was called feudalism and was based on agriculture.
The backbone of this system was the serf.

5. Serfs Largest group on the feudal estate (manor)
Serfs had limited freedom
They were poor
They worked as ordered by the lord of the manor.

6. The Rise of Christianity
The Roman Catholic Church became a political power in western Europe.
The church built large abbeys, churches and cathedrals to sustain their presence.
The church was led by a pope who was a political figure.

7. The Rise of Christianity
The church sponsored holy wars called the Crusades. One goal was to capture Jerusalem.
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Watch this video and take 4 notes

8. The Holy Roman Empire
The Germans founded kingdoms all over Europe
Many of these became Christian
The kings became more independent and powerful.

9. Charlemagne Elected king of the Franks in 771.
He fought wars to add more of Germany, Spain and Italy to the Frank kingdom.

10. Religious Persecution
After the Crusades, Western Europe’s Jewish population faced serious persecution.
Jews were expelled from England in 1290
In 1492 Spain expelled Jews and Muslims.

11. England and the Magna Carta
King John I becomes too powerful
1215 Church leaders and lords rebel.
Force John I to sign the Magna Carta to limit the king’s power.

12. What was the purpose of the Magna Carta?
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In your own words, write about the purpose of the Magna Carta. (three sentences at least)