General Life:
* Feudal System: Most of Europe was governed by a feudal system. Lords granted land to vassals in exchange for military service and loyalty. Peasants worked the land and paid taxes to their lords.
* Rural Society: Most people lived in small villages or hamlets. Agriculture was the primary source of income and food.
* Limited Technology: Tools and technologies were basic. People relied on animal power, water mills, and hand tools for farming and other tasks. Travel was slow and dangerous.
* Low Life Expectancy: Disease, famine, and childbirth were major threats. The average life expectancy was around 30-40 years.
England Before 1066:
* Saxon Rule: England was ruled by Anglo-Saxon kings who maintained a system of local government and defense.
* Viking Raids: Frequent Viking raids from Scandinavia were a constant threat.
* The Danelaw: The Vikings had conquered and ruled much of the northern and eastern parts of England, establishing the "Danelaw".
* Christianity: Christianity was the dominant religion, with monasteries and churches playing important roles in society.
* Agriculture: Farming was the backbone of the economy, with barley, wheat, and rye being important crops.
Other Parts of Europe:
* Byzantine Empire: The Byzantine Empire, centered in Constantinople, was a wealthy and sophisticated civilization with a strong military and a thriving trade network.
* Islamic World: The Islamic world was a center of learning and scholarship, with advancements in science, mathematics, and art.
* Viking Expansion: Viking warriors and traders were expanding their reach across Europe and into Russia.
* Early Medieval Kingdoms: Various kingdoms, including the Franks, the Lombards, and the Visigoths, existed across Europe, each with its own unique culture and history.
Notable Events Before 1066:
* The Fall of the Roman Empire (476 AD): The decline and fall of the Roman Empire marked the beginning of the Middle Ages.
* The Viking Age (793-1100 AD): A period of Viking expansion, conquest, and trade.
* The Carolingian Renaissance (8th and 9th centuries): A period of cultural and intellectual revival under the rule of the Carolingian dynasty.
* The Norman Conquest of England (1066): The Battle of Hastings, which led to the Norman conquest of England, marked a major turning point in English history.
Remember, this is just a very brief overview. There is much more to learn about life before 1066. You can explore specific regions, time periods, and historical events to gain a deeper understanding of this fascinating era.