When we think of the Middle Ages, we think of knights in shining armor and kings. There were knights and kings, but there was also much more to this time period. The kings back then did not have a lot of power, and it wasn't always clear who was in charge. Life without a strong government could be dangerous for people, especially if there was fighting.

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A system of feudalism developed to set up more rules and order. Different groups of people had certain responsibilities. Under feudalism, people gave kings and lords money and work in exchange for protection. Feudalism affected how people lived, the communities they lived in and what they did for a job.