Part one of term paper
The term itself, "Gothic," derives from a term given to the style by Renaissance scholar, Giorgi Vasari, who incorrectly attributed the form to the Goths, Germanic invaders who helped lead to the downfall of the Holy Roman Empire and its classic ideals. In it's own time; Gothic architecture was referred to as "modern" or "French" architecture ...

Part two of term paper
... era lasted primarily from 1150 AD to the 1400s, with more than 80 and 500 large churches built in the Gothic style. functioned as town centers of not only religion, but also of local government and social gatherings. The massive effort that was required into the construction of the helped foster a strong community spirit and pride, and sometimes formed a strong competitive edge with neighboring and towns. Gothic were built primarily to contain holy relics and serve as pilgrimage destinations ...