Final answer:
The Great Famine of 1315-1317 in western Europe led to the development of the manorial system and had a profound impact on the social and economic structures of the time, including the eventual decline of feudalism.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Great Famine of 1315-1317 was a catastrophic event that drastically impacted western Europe, primarily affecting northern Europe. One of the long-term impacts of this famine was the development and solidification of the manorial system, as it forced many peasants to seek protection and sustenance from local lords in exchange for labor and service. This system changed the social and economic fabric of medieval society and remained a cornerstone of feudal life for centuries. Additionally, the famine undercut trust in the church and monarchy, as their response to the crisis was viewed as inadequate, leading to an increased reliance on local manorial systems and creating conditions for significant socio-economic shifts, including the gradual decline of feudalism after subsequent events like the Black Death. The Great Famine ultimately led to a better quality of life for some survivors, as the drastic reduction in population allowed those who remained to demand better wages and working conditions.