Byzantine Empire
The Byzantine Empire, also known as the Eastern Roman Empire, was the continuation of the Roman Empire in its eastern provinces during Late Antiquity and the Middle Ages. Its capital was Constantinople, originally known as Byzantium, which was strategically located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, making it a key center for trade, culture, and military strength.
History
- Foundation: The Byzantine Empire is traditionally dated from 330 AD when Constantine the Great moved the capital of the Roman Empire to Byzantium, renaming it Constantinople.
- Golden Age: The empire reached its greatest extent under Justinian I (527-565 AD), who reconquered parts of the former Western Roman Empire. His reign is noted for the Corpus Juris Civilis, a collection of fundamental works in Roman law.
- Decline and Middle Period: Following Justinian's death, the empire faced numerous challenges including the Plague of Justinian, wars with Sassanid Empire, and later the rise of Islam and the Arab-Byzantine Wars. The Iconoclasm controversy also weakened the empire.
- Revival under the Macedonian Dynasty: From the mid-9th to the 11th century, the Macedonian Dynasty saw a cultural and military renaissance, with figures like Basil II expanding the empire's territory.
- Fourth Crusade and Latin Empire: The empire was severely weakened when Fourth Crusade resulted in the sack of Constantinople in 1204, leading to the establishment of the Latin Empire. The Byzantine Empire was restored in 1261 but was a shadow of its former self.
- Fall of Constantinople: The empire finally fell to the Ottoman Turks on May 29, 1453, marking the end of the Byzantine Empire.
Culture and Legacy
The Byzantine Empire was renowned for its:
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