The Crusades are one of the most significant events in Western history and of particular importance to the time frame of the Middle Ages. The Middle Ages lasted for approximately 1000 years from the 5th century to the 15th century. Due to its timeframe, the Middle Ages in Europe is divided into three smaller periods referred to as the Early, High and Late Middle Ages. The High Middle Ages began at the start of the 11th century and included some of the most prominent events and elements of the whole Middle Ages, including the Crusades. As such, when discussing the significance of the Crusades it is also important to consider the history and impact of the Middle Ages.
As a historical event the Crusades occurred for over a period of two centuries. More specifically, the First Crusade began in 1096 CE and the events of the Ninth Crusade, which was the last major event of the Crusades, occurred in 1303 CE. As such, historians consider the Crusades to be a significant historical event because it played such an important role in both European and Middle Eastern history for over two centuries.
The definition of federalism is straightforward: it is the federal principle or system of government. Throughout history, it has been a political system where 2+ governments share authority over the same geographical area.
The fall of Rome and the replacement of Rome's empire by an assortment of barbarian and semi-barbarian rulers was certainly a big factor on the development of both feudalism and the monastery system.
