European nobility originated in the feudal/seignorial system that arose in Europe during the Middle Ages. Originally, knights or nobles were mounted warriors who swore allegiance to their sovereign and promised to fight for him in exchange for an allocation of land (usually together with serfs living thereon).

When was nobility created?

The social and political system established in the Kingdom of France from approximately the 15th century until the latter part of the 18th century under the late Valois and Bourbon dynasties. The term is occasionally used to refer to the similar feudal social and political order of the time elsewhere in Europe.

How did aristocracy start?

The word 'aristocracy' is of ancient Greek origin and signifies the 'rule of the best. ... In the eighth and early seventh century BC, social position of the aristocrats was based on their land ownership but also upon commerce, robbery, and piracy. They dominated the communities (poleis) and organized colonization.