Geography
The city of Constantinople was the center of the Byzantine Empire until the Ottoman conquest in 1453. It provided many geographic and economic advantages over Rome, and served as the new capital for the empire. In this interactivity, you will explore more about Constantinople's unique geography. Click the player button to begin.
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Rulers, Accomplishments, and Legacy
During the fifth century, Germanic tribes moved into the Western Roman Empire, and the Eastern Roman Empire emerged. Known as the Byzantine Empire, after the original name of the city of Byzantium, this civilization blended ancient Greek, Roman, and Christian influences with other traditions of the Mediterranean. After flourishing for about one thousand years, the Byzantine Empire fell to the Ottoman Turks in 1453. In this interactivity, you will learn more about the Byzantine Empire. Click the player button to begin.
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Take a moment to examine this map of the Byzantine Empire. The territories indicated in purple are those reconquered when Justinian I ruled. As you review the map, think about what it indicates about the leader and his accomplishments.
Now that you have explored information about the Byzantine Empire, review your knowledge in this interactivity. Click the player button to get started.