KeskAeg

KeskAeg is a term used in Estonian to denote the Middle Ages. This historical period generally spans from the 5th century to the 15th century, although its precise boundaries can vary depending on geographical context and historical interpretation. In Estonia, the Middle Ages are often considered to have begun with the arrival of Germanic crusaders in the early 13th century, marking the end of the pre-Christian Estonian period.

The KeskAeg in Estonia was characterized by significant political, social, and religious transformations. The period saw the establishment of feudal systems, the construction of castles and churches, and the integration of Estonia into the broader European sphere of influence. The Livonian Crusade and the subsequent conquests by the Teutonic Knights, Denmark, and Sweden profoundly shaped the region's development during this era.

Socially, KeskAeg witnessed the formation of distinct social classes, including nobility, clergy, merchants, and serfs. The economy was primarily agrarian, with trade playing an increasingly important role, particularly in coastal towns. The legal and administrative structures established during this time laid the groundwork for future Estonian statehood. The end of KeskAeg in Estonia is often associated with the Livonian War in the 16th century, which ushered in a new period of foreign rule and conflict.