By Mubarak Ali (historian)
Braudel, a prominent historian of the Annales school of history, argues that the rise of Europe emerged after it became secure from foreign invaders such as the Huns, the Mongols and the Arabs.
The sense of security that emerged during the Crusades as well as the resultant resources from the Mediterranean helped the continent in building the infrastructure and institutions of its society.
The turning point in Europe’s history was from 8th to 10th century, when the Norse invaded the western Europe. In order to defend themselves, Europeans ultimately developed dominant naval power.
The Norse not only invaded western Europe, but also reached the New World. According to Pirenne, a Belgian historian, Europe at that time did not give the New World much importance and the discovery was soon forgotten. When the Vikings invaded the western Europe, they killed, plundered and took away centuries-old wealth that the churches had accumulated. They brought this wealth into the market, which was subsequently used to activate European economy.
According to Braudel, Europe in the 9th and 10th centuries was in the Dark Ages. Economically, it was so weak that it could not bear the burden of great empires. Charlemagne built a great empire, but it soon collapsed in 814 AD and divided into small states. Its resources were so minimal that it could hardly sustain small feudatories. This gave birth to a feudal culture in Europe which continued till modern period.
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