What Is Feudalism? Key Differences Between Chinese and European Systems

The word "feudalism" appears frequently in history classes, but its meaning differs drastically between East and West. In the West, it refers to a contractual relationship between lords and vassals, while in China, it meant a decentralized system where the king granted land to relatives and loyal officials to rule various regions. In this post, we’ll explore the differences between European feudalism and Chinese feudalism (封建制), focusing on their structure, philosophy, and historical contexts.

 

 

Feudalism in China: Zhou Dynasty’s Decentralized Governance

In ancient China, feudalism (封建制) began under King Wu of the Zhou Dynasty, who stabilized the realm by granting territories to royal family members and meritorious subjects. These feudal lords (諸侯) enjoyed autonomy in their regions but were formally obligated to offer tribute and military aid to the Zhou king.

  • Prominent feudal states: Lu, Song, Qi, Jin, Wei
  • A layered hierarchy: Lords → Ministers → Retainers
  • Structure based on bloodline and political merit
    An illustrated comparison chart showing Chinese and European feudal systems – the left side displays the Chinese hierarchy from king to nobles and retainers based on kinship, while the right side shows the European structure from king to vassals, knights, and serfs, emphasizing military service and land contracts.

Feudalism in the West: Military Contracts and Land Exchange

Medieval European feudalism was built on a military contract system between kings and vassals. Lords received land (fiefs) in exchange for providing military service. Legal oaths, mutual obligations, and warfare defined this system.

  • Hierarchy: King → Dukes → Barons → Knights → Serfs
  • Vassals received land in return for loyalty and military aid
  • Emphasis on defense, warfare, and personal contracts

 

 

Comparing Chinese and Western Feudalism

Category Chinese Feudalism (Zhou) European Feudalism (Medieval)
Core Principle Land given based on bloodline or merit Land exchanged for military service
Relation to Central Authority Kinship and ceremonial loyalty Legal contracts with relative independence
Military Role Troop support when summoned Military service as a central duty
Inheritance Hereditary, often patrilineal Hereditary, renewed by agreement
Governance Style Ritual and culture-based Warfare and defense-based

 

 

Why Are They So Different?

These contrasting systems arose from differing societal values and survival needs:

  • China: Confucian family hierarchy and ceremonial order → loyalty to kin
  • Europe: Germanic warrior tradition and Christianity → loyalty by oath

In short, Chinese feudalism aimed for cultural unification, while European feudalism focused on military survival.

 

 

Conclusion: One Term, Two Systems

Although both systems are labeled "feudalism," they are fundamentally different. China’s feudalism was about decentralization through kinship and merit, whereas Europe’s feudalism was structured around mutual military contracts. Understanding these differences lets us go beyond the label "feudal" and gain insight into the cultural and political structures of each civilization.

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