Feudalism was a political and social structure that characterized medieval Europe, organizing society around relationships derived from the holding of land in exchange for service and protection. Under this system, kings granted lands to nobles (lords) in exchange for loyalty and military support. These lords, in turn, provided parcels of land (fiefs) to vassals or knights, who pledged their service. Peasants or serfs worked the land, offering agricultural produce in exchange for protection and a place to live. This hierarchical structure created a complex web of allegiances, defining social roles and responsibilities, and significantly influenced the political and economic landscape of medieval Europe.