Demise of Feudalism

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Demise of Feudalism

There were numerous factors involving the demise of Feudalism in Europe. All the different small problems added to the confusion and replacement of feudalism by The Renaissance. The concentration of power in the hands of a few was always a great disruptive force in the feudal system. The rise of powerful monarchs in France, Spain, and England broke down the local organization.

One of the determining factors in the downfall of feudalism was the Hundred Years War. This war was fought because England claimed the king's succession over France. The Hundred Years War was very devastating to the two countries. The war was a sign to people that a monarchy wasn't as great as was expected. Due to France's weak government and England's small armies, the war sent on and on, giving the peasants a great reason to loose respect for the monarchy. The peasants and middle class faced a big problem during this time, which were taxes. The war squeezed out taxes due to the overdrawn length of the Hundred Years War. This problem was the beginning of major revolts throughout Europe. Two more determining factors involved in the breakdown of feudalism were a famine that started around 1315 and the Bubonic Plague. The famine was a period of bad crops. Due to the bad crops, the peasants couldn't eat which led to further problems such as the weakening of the immune system.

Following the famine that hit Europe was the disastrous Bubonic Plague. The plague first occurred in China. Since China was one of the world's busiest trading nations, it was only a matter of time before the outbreak of plague spread to western Asia and Europe. Once people became infected, others were infected rapidly. The disease struck and ...

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...o Grosso were next in line, followed by the Midelo Burgers or the middle class which were the shop owners, and lastly the Popolo Minuto or the little people. These were the beggars that made up ¼ of the city.

The downfall of feudalism in Europe was replaced by a much more inviting period in the growth of commerce and better way of life for its people. Intellectual ideas, behavior, and attitudes substituted the dull (take it for granted) way of life during feudalism. Humanism and art opened a new perspective during this period, giving people dignity of humankind and individualism. Many new discoveries were accomplished as well as trade centers. Cities were formed, governments expanded, and the social and economical classes were formed. The Renaissance was altogether a better period of time for the people of Europe and the country grew stronger as a result.

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