Byzantine Empire: 2. 650-1204
Jonathan Shepard
Abstract In the mid‐7th century Roman Empire underwent defeat from desert‐dwelling Arabs. Having lost their wealthiest provinces, emperors tried fiscal and strategic expedients, but Muslims kept up pressure. The piety, generalship, concern for justice of Leo III Constantine V proved a winning combination laid foundations medieval – Byzantine empire. Constantinople exercised centripetal force on provincials “barbarians” alike, substantiating emperors’ claims to “Roman” “universal” authority, facilitating diplomacy. Mid‐10th‐century Byzantium's stance became expansionist, culminating in reconquest Northern Syria subjugation Bulgaria. However, mounting prosperity enlarged armed forces posed fiscal‐administrative problems. Although, mid‐11th century, Soft Power was at its height, new predators appeared, Turcomans overran most Asia Minor. Alexios I Komnenos restored order his descendants pursued similar policies, while exploiting rivalries between other powers. Komnenian clique's mode operating ultimately eroded “the common good,” prompted tax evasion by provincials. position astride communication routes no longer asset it had once been amidst less sophisticated, traders Neither image wealth long projected Outsiders’ expectations resources could work disadvantage. 1204 fell victim Fourth Crusade.
The Encyclopedia of Empire