What was a key factor that led to the development of European feudalism?

The development of European feudalism was primarily influenced by decentralization and the lack of a strong centralized government during the Early Middle Ages. After the fall of the Roman Empire, Europe experienced significant political instability, which led to a power vacuum. Local lords and nobles began to gain control over land and resources, creating their own small territories.

In this context, a system evolved where these local leaders would offer protection to peasants and vassals in exchange for labor and service. This relationship formed the basis of feudal contracts, where loyalty and military service were exchanged for land and protection. As central authority weakened, individuals relied more on their immediate local leaders for security and governance, which further entrenched the feudal system.

While factors such as military alliances and growing trade networks played roles in shaping medieval society, they were not the foundational elements that led to the establishment of feudalism itself. The decentralized nature of power and the absence of a unifying bureaucratic structure were critical in fostering the feudal system, thus making this aspect key to understanding feudalism in medieval Europe.