Stewards of the Future: Byzantine Empire

The period following the decline of the Western Roman Empire, often mischaracterized as a time of darkness and ignorance.

The city of Constantinople, founded by Roman Emperor Constantine in 330 CE, later became the capital of the Byzantine Empire.

The shift of power from Rome to Constantinople, marking a significant change in the political and cultural landscape of Europe.

The name of the city before Constantine renamed it to Constantinople.

A term used to describe the people who lived in the Byzantine Empire, emphasizing their strong connection to their Roman heritage.

The decline of the Western Roman Empire and the ascendance of Constantinople as the dominant force in the Eastern Mediterranean.

The Roman Empire was divided into Western and Eastern halves due to its vast size and difficulties in governing.

The eastward expansion of the Byzantine Empire, bringing back territories previously held by the Western Roman Empire and extending its reach even further.

The Byzantine Empire's military strength and focus on the betterment of the empire played a significant role in its success and longevity compared to the declining Western Roman Empire.

Emperor Justinian's reign marked a period of significant growth and power for the Byzantine Empire, with advancements in military and territorial expansion.

The legacy of the Byzantine Empire was instrumental in influencing the Renaissance in Western Europe, particularly after the fall of Constantinople.

The Hagia Sophia, a magnificent example of Byzantine architecture, stands as a symbol of the Byzantine Empire's achievements in its construction.

A system of government where land is granted in exchange for loyalty and service, creating a hierarchical structure with nobles at the top and peasants at the bottom.

A type of social structure that restricts opportunities based on birth and class, limiting mobility and advancement.

A state of decline and decay, often due to internal weakness, corruption, or external pressure.

The idea that individuals should be valued and rewarded based on their capabilities and contributions, regardless of their social background.

The early years of the Byzantine Empire, characterized by a flourishing of arts, sciences, and trade.

A period of decline and decay in the Byzantine Empire, marked by corruption, social rigidity, and eventually, conquest.

The Code of Law created by Emperor Justinian, which became a foundational text for legal systems in Europe.

The influential Empress of the Byzantine Empire, known for her intelligence, strength, and support for Justinian.

The Emperor of the Byzantine Empire, famous for his legal reforms and military conquests.

Theodora and Justinian were a powerful duo, ruling much of the former Roman Empire. They had different religious beliefs but ruled successfully, showing differences can be strengths in leadership.

Emperor Heraclius (610-641 CE) made Greek the official language of the Byzantine Empire. He also reformed the military, enabling expansion and battling the rising influence of Islam.

Leo VI, unlike previous emperors, focused on learning and scholarship before taking the throne. This allowed him to manipulate power peacefully and strengthen imperial authority.

Leo VI's reign saw a shift of power away from the Senate, concentrating authority in the emperor's hands. This mirrored the Roman Empire's downfall, highlighting the dangers of centralized power.

Leo VI's reign saw advancements in historical documentation, including adaptions of Byzantine laws and rules to better reflect changing times, despite significant military losses.