to keep order, they could no longer depend on the government. Since number of lords substantially increased, the number of vassals multiplied also. This abundant increase brought about the development of subinfeudation. This is where fief-holding became complicated. Vassals of a king might also have vassals who might owe them military service for land that was granted to them. These vassals sometimes also had other vassals under them who might only have enough land to provide their equipment. Even though this system brought about greater and lesser landowners, this relationship was still honorable. Since this was a willing relationship between free men, it was not based on servitude. This practice of subinfeudation became widespread because the king could not protect the people from invasions. Fiefs now gave the lords virtual possession of the rights of the government. This practice of vassalage, what is now called feudalism, proved to be one of the key reasons why all of Western Europe did not fall entirely. Raids and invasions on Western Europe by the Muslims, Magyars, and most importantly the Vikings caused the disintegration of their political system. This is when vassalage would be brought about. There was no way the king could protect all the people so instead people turned to feudalism.This new political system known as feudalism was a practical response to the hardships of the Western European world. It restored honor, loyalty, and order in time of need. If it were not for this social organization, Western Europe may have completely disintegrated. ...
