In a feudal system, the responsibility for protecting the people primarily fell to the lords or nobles. Feudalism was characterized by a hierarchical structure where land was granted in exchange for service and loyalty. In this system:
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Lords/Nobles: They held large estates and were responsible for the management of their land and the safety of those living on it. They provided military protection and support through their knights and vassals, who were warriors sworn to defend the lord's land.
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Knights: These were mounted warriors who served the lords in exchange for land (fiefs). Knights were trained to fight and protect the lord's territory and the serfs or peasants working the land.
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Peasants/Serfs: These individuals worked the land and provided the lords with agricultural produce. While they were not directly responsible for protection, they relied on the lords and knights for safety in exchange for their labor and service.
In summary, the lords and their knights were primarily responsible for the protection of the people under the feudal system, while the peasants worked the land and contributed to the economy in return for safety and security.