Chapter 11 - The Middle Ages in Europe

Why was life as a nun or missionary appealing to people in the Middle Ages?

It was one of the few places where people would receive any education and power

How did the Magna Carta lead to the first Baron's war?

After it failed to achieve peace, the barons rebelled against King John and attempted to replace him on the throne

Which of the following were the likely causes of Harold's defeat at the Battle of Hastings?

All of these answers; Harold had to gather an army quickly as he rode south, meaning he was ill-prepared for battle William's forces pretended to flee before turning on Harold's army, suprising them and gaining the advantage Harold's army was much smaller than William's and contained fewer archers and no cavalry

Why is Charlemagne considered to be the greatest ruler of the Carolingian Dynasty?

All of these answers; He brought Europe out of turmoil, uniting Europe and spreading Christianity; He believed government should benefit citizens consistently tried to improve the lives of his people; He encouraged learning by opening schools and promoting education

Which of the following had a significant influence on trade and commerce in the Late Middle Ages?

All of these answers; The growing power of guilds in the 14th century as craftsmen united to protect their common interest; The rise of insurance issuing, forms of credit, and new forms of accounting; Exploration opening up new trade routes to the south of Africa, India and America

How was the Black Death thought to be transmitted from central Asia to Europe?

By fleas on black rats that traveled on merchant ships

How was the lord of the manor supported economically?

From his landholdings and obligatory contributions from the peasants who fell under his jurisdiction

Why is the Domesday book such an important historical document?

It is the oldest public record in England and the most significant historical survey in the history of Europe

Comparing Harold's success at the Battle of Stamford and loss at the Battle of Hastings, which of the following factors contributed to his ultimate defeat to William II of Normandy?

Harold's army was poorly prepared, and had approximately 3000 less troops than William

Charlemagne launched a 30 year military campaign in 772-804 to unite Europe and spread Christianity - why was he so successful in his quest?

He was an expert military commander and planner, and believed in full training of his warriors

How did the Pope become such a powerful figure in Medieval Europe?

He was seen as God's representative on Earth, and people looked to him for guidance on how to live

What were some of the reasons behind the military strength of the Germanic tribes?

Men began battle training at a young age and warriors were intensely devoted to their tribe and chieftain

Was the Magna Carta a complete failure?

No; it became an international symbol for those who wished to show the king was bound by law

Why did Joan of Arc feel compelled to help the French army to victory over the English?

She had a vision of three saints who told her to drive out the English and return Charles VII to the throne

What was Joan of Arc's role in the Hundred Year's War?

She led the French to victory over the English resulting in the crowning of Charles VII of France

Ships allowed Vikings to explore and trade with large parts of Europe, as well as parts of Asia and North America. What currency did they use to trade?

Silver in the form of bars, or ingots as well as jewelry and oraments. Gold was sometimes used

What event compounded the effect of the Black Death, resulting in even more deaths?

The Great Famine which led to a catastrophic shortage of food in Europe

What was the Magna Carta?

The first document imposed upon a King of England to limit his powers by law and protect civil rights

What were some of the impacts of the Crusades?

They reopened the Mediterranean to trade and travel and engaged in commerce with local populations while marching

Exploration opening up new trade routes to the south of Africa, India and America

Villeins were the most common type of serf. They had more rights than the lowest serf, but less than freemen

What were the lives of peasant women like in Medieval Europe?

Women were subordiante to men, and responsible for the household. They supplemented their time spinning or brewing