Under feudalism, the primary responsibility for protecting the people rested with the lords or nobles who held power over their respective territories. The lords maintained a system of personal vassalage, in which they granted lands, known as fiefs, to vassals who swore loyalty and military service. In return, these vassals provided protection and military support to their lord. Therefore, it was the feudal lords and their vassals who were directly responsible for protecting the people within their domains.
