How did the Crusades affect the feudal system in Europe?

In a way, the crusades both the strengthened and sounded the death knell for the feudal system in Europe. They solved one problem of too many knights in Europe wandering around killing people and disrupting life in general. read more

But the Crusades did two things which ultimately undid the feudal system. First, they provided a trade route and a taste of the exotic things of the East. Until you tasted pepper, you had no idea your food was so bland. The Crusades opened the door for the import/export of commodities, that is, beyond what could be made locally. read more

The crusades could not fail to affect in many ways the life of western Europe. For instance, they helped to undermine feudalism. Thousands of barons and knights mortgaged or sold their lands in order to raise money for a crusading expedition. read more

The Crusades provoked the weakening of the feudal system as many of the hereditary lords died with their sons during the campaigns. With no one left to inherit, the lands were returned to the Crown. The Crusades saw massive casualties on both sides. read more

Some very imaginative answers, but in reality the Crusades did not affect ‘the deudal system’ in Europe. First, feudalism wasn’t something to be found all over Europe. Similarly, participation in the Crusades was fairly limited. If anything, the Crusades brought a bit of feudalism to the Levant, in the crusader states. read more