The Medieval period, also known as the Middle Ages, lasted 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 owned by lords and worked by peasants. This era saw the growth of Christianity and the establishment of powerful kingdoms across Europe. During the Medieval period, significant events included the Crusades, which were military campaigns aimed at reclaiming the Holy Land, and the Black Death, a devastating plague that killed millions. The period also witnessed the flourishing of Gothic architecture, exemplified by cathedrals like Notre-Dame.