what significant changes happened to Western Europe in 767 - 1100
During the period from 767 to 1100, Western Europe witnessed several significant changes, including:
1. Charlemagne's Empire: Charlemagne, also known as Charles the Great, was crowned as the Holy Roman Emperor in 800. He expanded his empire, which covered an extensive part of Western Europe, including modern-day France, Germany, and Italy. Charlemagne promoted education, arts, and trade within his empire, making significant contributions to the development of Western Europe.
2. Viking Raids: Starting in the late 8th century, Viking raiders from Scandinavia made frequent incursions to Western Europe. They targeted coastal areas, river settlements, and monasteries, causing chaos and destruction. These raids affected trade, economy, and society, leading to the need for stronger defenses and the creation of alliances to combat the Viking threat.
3. Feudalism: The feudal system began to emerge in Western Europe during this period. It was a social and economic system based on the exchange of land for military service and loyalty. Feudal lords, including kings, granted land to vassals in exchange for their military support and other services. This system provided a hierarchical structure and shaped the political organization of Western Europe.
4. Rise of the Papacy: The authority of the papacy, or the office of the Pope, increased during this period. The papacy gained more independence and established its power as the supreme authority in the Catholic Church. Popes such as Pope Gregory VII initiated church reforms, asserting their authority over secular rulers and leading to conflicts known as the Investiture Controversy.
5. Crusades: The eleventh century witnessed the start of the Crusades, a series of military expeditions by Christians from Western Europe to reclaim the Holy Land from Muslim control. The Crusades had significant impacts, including fostering trade and cultural exchange between Europe and the Middle East, as well as affecting political, social, and religious dynamics in Western Europe.
6. Norman Conquest of England: In 1066, William the Conqueror, Duke of Normandy, invaded England and defeated King Harold II at the Battle of Hastings. This event, known as the Norman Conquest, resulted in the establishment of Norman rule in England. Norman traditions and influences, such as the introduction of Norman French language and a feudal system, transformed English society and culture.
It is worth noting that this is not an exhaustive list, and various other changes, such as the growth of towns and cities, advancements in agriculture and technology, and the spread of Christianity, also occurred during this period in Western Europe.