Middle Ages began after Western Rome collapsed, but relics stayed
Feudalism was introduced and changed Rome’s ways
Christianity became the recognized religion as it rose to power
Guilds, trade and commerce developed; common law
There were castles and manors, but many homes were small
Magna Carta, Bubonic Plague, and Hundred Years War.

End of the Roman Empire in 476 C.E started the medieval times
Rome’s influence continues into modern days
Murals, mosaics, cameos, frescoes, are here to stay
Domes, vaults, cathedrals, the magnificent Colosseum and Pantheon
The ideas of roads, bridges, and aqueducts live on!
Philosophy and modern languages effects are felt, though Rome is gone!

Feudalism Developed, and monarchs made demands
Charlemagne, crowned Holy Emperor unified Christian lands!
Lords managed and defended their land, living in their manors
Knights followed the code of chivalry, squires carried banners
Livestock, and farming- being a peasant and serf was tough!
Serfs paid taxes, head money, and tallage- life was simply rough!

In Medieval times, Christians were persecuted for their beliefs
Yet Christianity became the recognized religion of the Romans 395 C.E
Monasteries provided hospitality to refugees,
Monks devoted their lives to prayer, faith, and study
Sacraments were an essential part of gaining true salvation
Christians went on pilgrimages to show extraordinary acts of devotion.

Europe’s towns began as centers for trade,
Merchants, guilds and journeymen too
worked and traded, commerce grew
Bubonic plague, a deadly disease, was spread by disgusting fleas.
Trial by ordeal or combat were used to prove innocence or guilt
People watched mystery and miracle plays put on by guilds.

V“A jury formally accuse a person of a crime,” Henry II demanded
“Put your seal to the Magna Carta, King John!” the angry barons all commanded
Commoners were included in the government during King Edward’s time.
During the wars, the French, horse mounted knights had heavy armor and crossbows
The English army had lightly-armored knights, foot soldiers, and archers with longbows.
The political changes, bubonic plague, and the Hundred Years’ War ended Feudalism

After the fall, remaining Romans went to Constantinople instead
The city was advanced, but many lived in poverty begging for bread
Chariot teams were upset at Justinian, They fought until 30,000 were dead!
Justinian built a better city than before; new bridges and roads; revised laws more
Christianity was the very foundation of the Byzantine Empire
Eastern Orthodox Church and Roman Catholic Church clashed, leaders were fired!

Legacy of ancient Rome influences our world today
In Western Europe, the Roman Catholic Church played a central role
As trade and commerce grew, towns too began to grow
The decline of feudalism was caused by three key events
A schism formed because of the churches’ many disagreements.
The influence of the Roman Empire is here to stay!