The Early Middle Ages, often called the Dark Ages, spanned from around 500 to 1000 AD. This period followed the fall of the Western Roman Empire and was marked by a decline in trade, urban life, and literacy. Many small kingdoms emerged in Europe, and the influence of the Christian Church grew significantly, providing stability and unity. The Late Middle Ages, from about 1000 to 1500 AD, saw a resurgence in trade, population growth, and cultural development. The rise of feudalism shaped social structures, while events like the Crusades and the Black Death had profound impacts on society. This era laid the groundwork for the Renaissance.