The Medieval Era, also known as the Middle Ages, spanned roughly from the 5th to the late 15th century. It began after the fall of the Western Roman Empire and is characterized by the rise of feudalism, where land was held by lords and worked by peasants. This period saw the establishment of powerful kingdoms and the influence of the Catholic Church in daily life and governance. During the Medieval Era, significant cultural and intellectual developments occurred, including the construction of grand cathedrals and the creation of illuminated manuscripts. The era also witnessed the emergence of notable figures such as Charlemagne, who united much of Western Europe, and the Crusades, a series of religious wars aimed at reclaiming the Holy Land.