Byzantine Empire
Definition
The Byzantine Empire refers to the Eastern Roman Empire that survived after the fall of the Western Roman Empire. It was centered around the capital city of Constantinople (modern-day Istanbul) and lasted from 330 AD to 1453 AD.
Analogy
Think of the Byzantine Empire as a resilient older sibling who managed to keep their portion of the family business running smoothly while their younger sibling struggled.
Related terms
Orthodox Christianity: A branch of Christianity practiced in the Byzantine Empire, characterized by its unique rituals and traditions.
Justinian I: A powerful Byzantine emperor who codified Roman law and launched military campaigns to reclaim lost territories.
Iconoclasm: The period during which there was a debate over whether religious icons should be allowed in churches, leading to conflicts within the empire.
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