feu·dal·ism ˈfyo͞odlˌizəm/ nounhistorical noun: feudalism "  the dominant social system in medieval Europe, in which the nobility held lands from the Crown in exchange for military service, and vassals were in turn tenants of the nobles, while the peasants (villeins or serfs) were obliged to live on their lord's land and give him homage, labor, and a share of the produce, notionally in exchange for military protection."  Feudalism was a reaction to the lack of any organized system of "public safety"..a reaction,if you will, to anarchy and chaos. ..the vassals were willing to exchange their freedom for the safety provided by their overlords.  IMO, today we remain loyal to our country so long it adequately provides for our safety and doesn't "over-stiffle" our freedoms.  I think it's impt. to emphasize that our "country" is a abstract construct which exists beyond the particular individual(s) holding political power at any point in history.  Gary crum