Medieval states were political entities that emerged in Europe during the Middle Ages, roughly from the 5th to the late 15th century. These states were often characterized by feudal systems, where land was held by nobles in exchange for military service. Key examples include the Kingdom of England, the Holy Roman Empire, and the Kingdom of France. The governance of medieval states was typically decentralized, with local lords exercising significant power over their territories. The influence of the Catholic Church was also profound, as it played a crucial role in legitimizing rulers and shaping laws. This period laid the groundwork for modern nation-states.