1098- The Cistercian order of monks evolved because some monks became disenchanted by the lack of strict discipline in the Benedictine orders. Cistercian beliefs spread rapidly. Monks from this order were required to eat a simple diet, wear only a single robe, and eliminate any type of decoration or adornment …

910- The Cluniac Reform Movement began in Burgundy at the abbey of Cluny. In 910 , Duke William of Aquitaine founded an abbey on the principal that the high ideals of the Benedictine rule should be lauded and followed. The Cluniac abbots maintained strict adherence to the ideal of moderation practiced …

750- 1258 CE - The Abbasid's were a dynasty in Damascus established by Abu al-Abbas. The Abbasids improved relations among Arab and non-Arab Muslims. They allowed Muslims of any ethnic origin to hold civil and military office in government. The natural result was far greater ethnic diversity and even greater acceptance …

Novgorod, Northwest Russia, south-southeast of St. Petersburg- The Rus where a Viking people who ruled under Rurik in the Slavic settlement of Novgorod, 862 CE. The Rus eventually donated their name to "Russia" as it is known today. One of Rurik's followers, Oleg, 873- 913 CE, established an association of …

Central Eastern Europe- The Slavs were a central European people who eventually migrated and separated into three groups: western, southern, and eastern Slavs. The Germans felt it was important for them to convert the Slavs to Christianity and expended great effort in doing so, 1000 CE. The Polish, Czech and …

987- 996 CE - When the power and authority of the Frankish kings diminished in the West, the nobles chose Hugh Capet, count of Orl'eans and Paris to become king. The political intent of their choice is revealed in the fact that Capet was a minor land owner whose primary control …