bondes Definition

In a historical context, specifically in medieval Norway, the term 'bondes' refers to free peasants who were independent and often also landowners, typically possessing holdings large enough to support a viable household. They were bondes before farmers became known as 'lönburar' (leased farmers) after the breakup of the old manorial system in the High Middle Ages. They played a significant role in the political and social structure of the traditionally egalitarian rural society of Norway and other Scandinavian countries.