Explain the origins and practice of feudalism. Include and define the terms fief and vassal in your answer.

Feudalism is a practice that has been used around the globe at different times, but was made famous for its use in Europe during the Middle Ages. Feudalism set up a system of control whereby nobles had control over fiefdoms or territories that were run by vassals, whereby they provided some degree of safety or protection for the vassals in return for payment through crops or some form of money.