The Feudal System
Kings - The king was the ruler of all the land, the real owner. But since he could not control all of the land by himself, he divided it up among the lords, or nobles. In return, they pledged their loyalty and gave soldiers to him.
Lords - The lords, in turn, provided land and protection to vassals, or knights. The lords owned everything on their land including the peasants, crops, and village.
Vassals/Knights - Vassals owned small pieces of land, were loyal to their lords, and fought for them.
Peasants or Serfs - Most of the people living in the Middle Ages were peasants. They had a hard, rough life and were forced to pledge loyalty to their lords. Many worked like slaves.