Born in 957/958, Basil II became co-emperor with brother Constantine in 960. After father's death in 963, government passed to military emperors. Basil II gained sole authority by eliminating powerful grand chamberlain in 985
Constantinople lacked fresh water sources due to its triangular peninsula location. City relied on Thracian hinterland for water supply. First recorded aqueduct built by Hadrian (117-138). Valens completed another aqueduct system (364-378)
Age of Empires 2 released in 1999 and remains popular over two decades. 2019 remastered version features 4K graphics and additional content. Game offers 45 civilizations with unique abilities and mechanics
Mehmet II became sultan at age 12 in 1444 after his father's abdication. His first reign ended due to political tensions and public skepticism. He returned to Manisa to develop intellect and gain military experience
Constantinople became Rome's capital in 324 AD under Emperor Constantine. From 5th to 13th centuries, it was Europe's largest and most flourishing city. The city was surrounded by walls and had a complex defensive system
Ottoman forces numbered 60,000-80,000 men and 320 vessels. Sultan Mehmed II's Basilic cannon was 7.3 meters long and could fire 550 kg balls. City's population dropped from 400,000 to less than 50,000. Only 6,000-7,000 defenders had real soldiers