Which of the following accurately evaluates the impact of feudalism after the fall of Western Rome?(1 point)
Responses
Feudalism developed in order to counter the power of nation-states.
Feudalism developed in order to counter the power of nation-states.
Feudalism was created by the Papal States as a “thank you” to Charlemagne.
Feudalism was created by the Papal States as a “thank you” to Charlemagne.
Feudalism was an effective protective measure against Germanic tribes.
Feudalism was an effective protective measure against Germanic tribes.
Feudalism strengthened the power and authority of the pope.
Feudalism developed in medieval Europe following the fall of the Western Roman Empire as a way to provide social and economic organization. It became a dominant social system where land was held in exchange for service, particularly military protection. Here is an evaluation of the statements provided:
1. "Feudalism developed in order to counter the power of nation-states."
This statement is not completely accurate. During the early Middle Ages when feudalism was arising, nation-states as we understand them today did not exist. The concept of national identity and centralized state power would only come into clearer focus much later. Feudalism actually arose in part because of the absence of strong centralized governments, which left local populations seeking protection and stability through this system.
2. "Feudalism was created by the Papal States as a 'thank you' to Charlemagne."
This is not accurate. Feudalism was not "created" by the Papal States nor as a "thank you" to Charlemagne. Though Charlemagne was crowned emperor by Pope Leo III and the two powers did have a mutually beneficial relationship, feudalism evolved more as a societal necessity in a time of fragmented political power, local warfare, and the need for mutual defense, rather than as a structured system devised by a single entity.
3. "Feudalism was an effective protective measure against Germanic tribes."
This can be considered accurate. After the fall of Rome, various Germanic tribes and other groups invaded and settled in former Roman territories. Feudalism, with its emphasis on land tenure in exchange for military service, allowed local lords to muster armies to defend against such incursions. In this sense, feudalism can be seen as a response to the threat posed by various external groups, including Germanic tribes.
4. "Feudalism strengthened the power and authority of the pope."
This statement does not directly capture the essence of feudalism. While feudalism had complex interactions with the church and certainly the church did own a great deal of feudal land and thus held power within the feudal system, feudalism as a social and military system did not inherently strengthen papal authority. In fact, there were times when secular feudal lords challenged the authority of the church.
Of the choices provided, "Feudalism was an effective protective measure against Germanic tribes" is the most accurate in terms of evaluating the impact of feudalism after the fall of Western Rome, but it should be understood in the broader context of the instability and power vacuums of the early medieval period.