A form of serfdom under the feudal system, whereby peasants were free, but restricted in their movements and options by their lord, to whom they owed labour and services. In theory, the lord in return was meant to look after the wellbeing of the villein.
Villeinage
Fact of the Day
Alexander the Great's body was preserved in honey.
Quote of the Day
"No-one loves armed missionaries
"
~ Robespierre, 1792
On This Day
1265 Simon de Montfort and the rebellious barons were defeated by the future King Edward I at the Battle of Evesham.
1870 The British Red Cross was founded, with the aim to provide impartial help to all those suffering in war and, later, in peacetime.
1914 Britain declared war on Germany, after Germany violated the Treaty of London and invaded Belgium.