Question

There was little economic growth in Europe after the fall of the Roman Empire during the Middle Ages because ?

Answer 1

After the fall of the Roman Empire, Europe's reversion to a basic economy limited the freedoms and economic potential of most of the population. Outright slavery declined but vulnerable people traded their land to local strongmen for protection. These people became tied to the land as serfs. It also paved the way for an emerging wealthy class to reap great benefits. The basic political, economic, and social unit became the manor system, and the majority of the population worked on land owned by the head of the manor. Weakened central governments depended on a system of allegiances based on promises of military service. In addition to childcare, weaving, spinning, and sewing duties, poor women worked the land alongside their families. Noblewomen were important as heiresses and candidates for marriage, as men sought to increase their wealth and power through marriage alliances. Women sometimes owned land and performed administrative duties, but most often a wife exercised control only during her husband's absences.