The History of Landholding in England (Electronic book text)

Whatever doubts may exist as to the influence of the Norman Conquest upon the mass of the people--the FREEMEN, the ceorls, and the serfs--there can be no doubt that its effect upon the higher classes was very great. It added to the existing FEUDALISM--the system of Baronage, with its concomitants of castellated residences filled with armed men. It led to frequent contests between neighboring lords, in which the liberty and rights of the FREEMEN were imperilled.