The heavy plough, which was a significant improvement from it 's predecessor, the ard, was put in widespread use around 1000 A.D. The most important component of the heavy plough is the mouldboard fitted on the base of the plough. This curved blade is able to turn the soil to either side and goes deep into the ground bringing lower soil to the surface. By turning the soil effectively, weeds are prevented not only because they are buried deep into the ground, but also because fertilizer such as manure can be used and tilled into the soil. The heavy plough improved drainage by the use of a system of ploughing known as ridge and furrow. The ploughing would be done so a long narrow trench could be visible in the middle of two ridges. This system worked to ensure a harvest even during wet seasons as soil could still be properly drained. Because of how effectively the heavy plough worked, it increased the productivity of the farmers as there was less effort per acre of land. Implementation of this important tool was only the start of many agricultural …show more content…
This system was similar to a contract and was in widespread use by 900 A.D.9 Feudalism was built on a series of hierarchies with noblemen acting as both vassals and lords. This is besides the king who was at the top of the hierarchy, and the knight at the bottom whose fief was large enough for only one soldier. In this system, noblemen were given an area of land called a fief by the king to have and tend to for his lifetime. In return for the land, the nobles were bound to furnish soldiers and money to the king. With the land received, the noble would then vow to give protection to vassals who lived on his land. To live on the noble 's fief, vassals were required to offer military service of his own and of his knights. They were also required to give money payments to the noble landowner on special