Fall of the Roman Empire: Consequences

Learning Target I can summarize the consequences of the fall of the Roman Empire, including… the continuation of the Eastern Roman Empire as the Byzantine Empire, Justinian, and the significance of Constantinople.

How does geography influence the way people live? Essential Question How does geography influence the way people live?

1. Byzantine Empire The eastern half of the Roman Empire Rome influenced the political and social life of the Byzantine Empire. Over time, the Greek influence grew and Greek culture became the most common. The empire preserved and passed on Greek culture and Roman laws to other peoples. Lasted 1,000 years

Roman Empire Divides

Barbarian Kingdoms After Rome’s Fall

2. Justinian Byzantine emperor from A.D. 527 until A.D. 565 He was a skilled general and strong leader. Justinian organized the Roman laws; the reforms were called Justinian’s Code. Theodora, Justinian’s wife, helped make important government decisions. His army reconquered land that had been a part of the Roman Empire before it split.

3. Constantinople The city was named for Emperor Constantine. It became the capital city and the center of Christianity in the Eastern (Byzantine) Empire. Constantinople’s location was important because: it was a good place for fishing and boats. it was a crossroads for trade. it was easy to defend.

Constantinople