Dark Ages

Dark Ages, popular term for the period in European history from the 5th to the 15th centuries. Beginning with the fall of Rome, the Dark Ages saw the establishment of Feudalism and the spread of Christianity through most of Europe. The term “Dark Ages” refers to the relative stagnation of science and culture, now thought to be exaggerated. The period ended with the Renaissance and the transition to the modern world.

See also: Middle Ages; Renaissance.