The "Dark Ages" refers to a period in European history from around the 5th to the 10th century, following the fall of the Western Roman Empire. This era is characterized by a decline in cultural and economic activity, as well as a decrease in literacy and learning. Many historical records from this time are scarce, leading to the term "dark" to describe the lack of information. During the Dark Ages, various tribes and kingdoms, such as the Franks and the Vikings, emerged and shaped the political landscape of Europe. Despite the challenges, this period also saw the spread of Christianity and the establishment of monasteries, which played a crucial role in preserving knowledge and culture for future generations.