Jobbérthetségének

Jobbérthetségének is a Hungarian term that translates to "serfdom" or "bondage" in English. It refers to the historical social and economic system prevalent in Hungary and much of Central and Eastern Europe from the Middle Ages until the mid-19th century. Under this system, the majority of the rural population, known as serfs or peasants, were legally tied to the land owned by the nobility or the church.

Serfs were not slaves in the absolute sense, as they could not be sold independently of the land. However, their lives were severely restricted. They were obligated to perform various services for their lord, including agricultural labor on the lord's demesne (private land), paying dues in kind or money, and providing military service. In return, they were granted a small plot of land for their own subsistence and were afforded a degree of protection by their lord.

The rights of serfs were limited, and they could not leave the estate without the lord's permission, marry outside the estate, or engage in certain trades. The lord exercised considerable judicial authority over his serfs, often acting as judge in disputes and administering punishments. The system of jobbérthetségének contributed to a rigid social hierarchy and played a significant role in the agricultural economy of the region. It was gradually abolished throughout the 19th century, with significant reforms occurring in 1848.