The Byzantine Empire 9.3
Grew rich and powerful A.D. 500-A.D. 1200
Capital- Constantinople One of the world’s great cities Wealthy Safe harbors Crossroads of trade routes between Europe and Asia Secure land location Easily defended
Influence of Greek Culture At first, followed Roman ways Became more Greek as time passed Blended non-Greek and Persian cultures
Emperor Justinian A.D. 527-A.D. 565 Wife, Theodora Helped choose government officials Convinced Justinian to give women more rights Encouraged Justinian to stay and fight back an uprising in A.D He won and gained more power.
Justinian’s Goal Reunite the Roman Empire General Belisarius Armored cavalry Successful Unable to hold the west, not enough money to maintain the army
Justinian’s Law Code Why? Laws disorganized, difficult to understand How? Scholars led by Tribonian Effects? Laws more understandable Influenced Europe’s laws
Byzantine Civilization Center of trade between Europe and Asia Made the Empire very rich Main industry- SILK WEAVING
Artists and Architects Many churches, forts, and public buildings Hagia Sophia Mosaics
Family center of social life Divorce rare Women Cared for home and family Educated (at home) some involved in politics
Education Govt. supported Boys went to school
Literature Wrote about religion Copied and passed on the writings of ancient Greece and Rome. SAVED THEM!