What was the political status in the 11th century?

In the 11th century, Europe was characterized by feudalism, where land was held in exchange for service, leading to a fragmented political landscape dominated by local lords and vassals. The Holy Roman Empire was significant in central Europe, while in England, the Norman Conquest in 1066 reshaped political dynamics. The Byzantine Empire continued to exert influence in the east, and the Islamic Caliphates were prominent in the Mediterranean and North Africa. This period also saw the beginnings of the Crusades, which would further alter political relations between Christians and Muslims.