Feudalism emerged in 10th-13th century Europe based on land distribution and military service. Term 'feudalism' derives from Latin 'feudalis' (fee) and 'feodum' (fief). System originated from Roman manorial system and Frankish kingdom
Principality can be monarchical feudatory or sovereign state ruled by prince/princess. Surviving principalities include Liechtenstein, Monaco, and Andorra. Term "principality" sometimes used generically for small monarchies
Middle Ages lasted from 5th to late 15th centuries. Divided into Early, High, and Late Middle Ages. Term "medieval" first appeared in Latin in 1469
Fief was a medieval property holding granted by overlord to vassal. Term "feudum" replaced "benefice" in documents from 984. Origin theories include Frankish "fehu-ôd" or "foderum" from 840
Seigneur was a feudal title in France before Revolution. Title derived from Latin "seniōrem" meaning "elder". Could be male or female, noble or commoner. Title applied to individuals or religious communities
War began in 1337 over dispute over English-French sovereignty over Aquitaine. Edward III claimed French throne through proximity of blood, Philip VI accepted. English initially won, capturing Crécy (1346) and Poitiers (1356)