Historical nobility refers to a social class that held privileges and power in various societies, particularly in Europe. Nobles often owned large estates and had significant influence over local governance and military matters. Their status was typically hereditary, passed down through generations, and they played key roles in the feudal system, where land ownership was tied to loyalty and service to a monarch. Throughout history, the aristocracy has been associated with titles such as duke, count, and baron. Nobility often enjoyed special rights, including exemption from certain taxes and the ability to hold court. The decline of noble power began with events like the French Revolution, which challenged traditional hierarchies and led to the rise of more democratic forms of governance.