Byzantine Empire survived 1,000 years after western Roman Empire's collapse. Constantine reunited Roman Empire in 324, establishing Constantinople as capital. Empire controlled territory from southern Spain to Syria. Byzantines spoke Greek but considered themselves Romans
Middle Ages spans from 400s to 1400 AD in Western Europe. Period also known as Dark Ages due to decline after Roman Empire's fall. Feudalism emerged with vassals ruling like kings. Catholic Church gained immense power in religious and civil affairs
Column was Constantine's only remaining trace and central monument in Byzantine Constantinople. Erected between 324-330, made of Egyptian porphyry, reaching up to 37 meters. Located in central Forum of Constantine along Mese street
Byzantine-Seljuk battle occurred on August 26, 1071 near Manzikert, Iberia. Byzantine army numbered about 40,000 men, with 200,000 according to sources. Battle resulted in Byzantine defeat and emperor Romanos IV's capture. Byzantine losses were relatively low, with most commanders surviving
Period from 901 to 1000, marking end of 1st millennium. Song dynasty established in China, reuniting most of China. Muslim world experienced cultural zenith under Córdoba and Samanid Empires. Byzantine Empire reconquered lost territories and flourished. First Bulgarian Empire established under Emperor Simeon the Great
Basil II's succession to throne weakened empire after his death. 13 emperors ruled from 1025 to 1081. Military and civilian aristocracy divided empire's power. Constantinople focused on culture and education under Psellus