Large properties, small possessions.

Charlemagne (771-814) decrees that all freeholds are dependent upon the king of France.
3.

From the eighth to the tenth century .-- The relation between the crown and the superior dependents is broken; the latter becoming freeholders, while the smaller dependents cease to recognize the king, and adhere to the nearest suzerain.

Feudal system.
4.

Twelfth century .-- Movement of the serfs towards liberty; emancipation of the communes.
5.