Roman empire
Byzantine empire
:: capital at Rome
:: capital at Constantinople
:: finally conquered by Ottoman Turks
:: finally conquered by German barbarians
The Roman Empire was a powerful and prosperous civilization that spanned from approximately 27 BC to 476 AD. It had its capital at Rome, located in Italy. The Roman Empire was known for its advanced infrastructure, military organization, and notable achievements in law, engineering, and architecture.
The Byzantine Empire, also known as the Eastern Roman Empire, emerged as the eastern half of the Roman Empire in 330 AD after the division of the empire. Its capital was located at Constantinople (present-day Istanbul, Turkey), which was strategically positioned at the crossroads of trade and served as an important economic and cultural center.
The Byzantine Empire endured for over 1,000 years, surviving numerous invasions and external threats. It was known for its strong centralized government, autocratic rulers, and preservation of Roman tradition. The Byzantines contributed greatly to the preservation and transmission of Greco-Roman culture, as well as the development of Orthodox Christianity.
The Roman Empire eventually fell to various causes, including economic decline, internal strife, and barbarian invasions. In 476 AD, the Western Roman Empire was officially dissolved when Romulus Augustulus, the last Roman emperor, was overthrown by Germanic chieftain Odoacer. The Eastern Roman Empire, or Byzantine Empire, continued to exist until 1453 AD when it was conquered by the Ottoman Turks, leading to the end of the medieval period in Europe.