The social system in England during the medieval period that was based on the hold of lands and power was feudalism. Under this hierarchical system, society was structured around land ownership and obligations between lords and vassals. Nobles, or lords, controlled large estates and granted portions of land to vassals in exchange for military service and loyalty. Peasants, or serfs, worked the land, providing labor for their lords in return for protection and a place to live. This system created a rigid class structure and defined relationships of power and duty, which influenced medieval society's economics, politics, and culture.