Why was feudalism important?

Feudalism played an important role in Europe following the fall of the Roman Empire in the West. It helped protect communities from violence and warfare during the dark ages by providing the means to raise standing armies at short notice.

Feudalism secured Western Europe’s society and kept out powerful invaders and helped in the revival of trade. 

For further reading check the following articles:

• Portuguese India
• British Raj
• Dutch Colonialism in India