Middle Ages Regents Practice Exam 2026 - Free Regents Practice Questions and Study Guide

The rise of feudalism and local power structures occurred as a result of the invasions during the Middle Ages, particularly from groups like the Vikings, Magyars, and Saracens. These invasions created widespread instability and insecurity, prompting people to seek protection from local lords in exchange for their service or labor. This led to the establishment of a feudal system, where land was held by lords, who offered safety and governance to vassals in return for military service and agricultural productivity.

In times of turmoil and uncertainty, central authority weakened, pushing communities to become more localized. Lords accumulated power and territories, resulting in a decentralized political structure that inherently characterized the Middle Ages. Thus, the invasions catalyzed this transformation, leading to the establishment of feudal relationships and the solidification of local power, as people turned to their immediate lords for security and governance rather than relying on a distant king or central state.