Byzantine Empire History Quiz

The statement is true because the Western Roman Empire did indeed fall to the Barbarians before the Eastern Empire and its capital, Constantinople. In 476 AD, the Western Roman Empire was overthrown by the Germanic chieftain Odoacer, marking the end of the Western Roman Empire. The Eastern Roman Empire, also known as the Byzantine Empire, continued to exist until 1453 AD when Constantinople was conquered by the Ottoman Turks. Therefore, the fall of the Western Roman Empire preceded the fall of the Eastern Empire.

Justinian I, also known as Justinian the Great, was a renowned Byzantine emperor who ruled from 527 to 565 CE. He is particularly known for his codification of Roman laws into the "Justinian Code" or "Corpus Juris Civilis," which became a fundamental legal foundation in both the Byzantine Empire and later Western legal systems. Justinian's legal reforms had a profound and lasting impact on Byzantine history and the broader development of law.

Emperor Constantine changed the location of Rome's capital from Rome to Constantinople. This decision was made in order to establish a new capital that was strategically located at the crossroads between Europe and Asia, providing better defense against external threats. Constantinople, with its favorable geographic position, also allowed for better control and administration of the vast Roman Empire. The move to Constantinople marked a significant shift in the power and influence of the Roman Empire, as it became the center of the Eastern Roman Empire, also known as the Byzantine Empire.

Justinian's decision to unite the Roman Empire and his success in regaining control over key areas indicates that the statement is true. Justinian, as the Byzantine Emperor, launched military campaigns to reclaim lost territories, including parts of Italy, North Africa, and Spain. His efforts resulted in the reconquest of significant territories, temporarily reestablishing the territorial integrity of the Roman Empire. Thus, the answer "True" accurately reflects Justinian's accomplishments in reuniting the Roman Empire.

The correct answer is Church because the Hagia Sophia was originally built as a Christian cathedral in the 6th century. It served as the primary church of the Byzantine Empire and was considered one of the greatest architectural marvels of its time. It was later converted into a mosque after the Ottoman Empire conquered Constantinople in 1453.

The Justinian Code refers to a series of laws that regulated various aspects of Byzantine life. It was created by Justinian, the Byzantine Emperor, and aimed to consolidate and clarify the existing laws of the empire. The code covered a wide range of topics, including civil and criminal law, property rights, marriage and divorce, slavery, and even religious matters. It was a comprehensive legal system that influenced not only the Byzantine Empire but also had a significant impact on later legal codes in Europe.

The correct answer is the Turks. The fall of Constantinople was indeed the result of a siege, and it was the Ottoman Turks who attacked the Byzantine Empire. The siege lasted from April 6 to May 29, 1453, and ultimately led to the capture of Constantinople by the Ottoman Empire, marking the end of the Byzantine Empire.

The Barbarians were considered anyone not Roman because the term "Barbarian" was used by the Romans to refer to any foreigner or outsider who did not belong to their civilization. It was a general term used to describe various non-Roman tribes and groups, including the Franks, Turks, Vandals, and many others. The Romans viewed themselves as the superior and civilized society, while considering those outside their empire as uncivilized and barbaric. Thus, anyone who did not belong to the Roman civilization was labeled as a Barbarian.

The Hippodrome was a building that housed events, such as shows and races. This was a large open-air stadium in ancient Greece and Rome, typically used for chariot racing and other public spectacles. It was a central gathering place for the community and hosted various forms of entertainment, including athletic competitions, theatrical performances, and social events. The Hippodrome played an essential role in the cultural and social life of the ancient world.

Diocletian, recognizing the vastness and varied challenges of governing the expansive Roman Empire, implemented the Tetrarchy system to better manage its territories and defend against external threats. This division aimed to streamline administrative efficiency and enhance military responsiveness, helping to stabilize the empire during tumultuous times.

The statement is false because there are more than three differences between the Roman Catholic Church and the Eastern Orthodox Church. Some of the key differences include the role of the Pope, the use of icons and statues in worship, the language used in liturgy, and the understanding of original sin. These differences have led to a historical and theological divide between the two churches, resulting in separate traditions and practices.

During the time of the Great Plague, it is estimated that around 10,000 people were dying each day. This deadly epidemic, also known as the Black Death, occurred in Europe during the 14th century and resulted in the deaths of millions of people. The disease was primarily spread by fleas that infested rats, causing widespread devastation and loss of life. The high mortality rate of 10,000 people per day showcases the severity and rapid spread of the Great Plague.