The Eastern Empire Forges a New Identity
The Eastern Empire Forges a New Identity is a Grade 7 history skill from California myWorld Interactive, Chapter 1: The Roman and Byzantine Empires. Students learn how the eastern half of Rome survived as the Byzantine Empire, developing a distinct Greek-speaking, Christian civilization centered on Constantinople.
Key Concepts
After the Western Roman Empire collapsed, the eastern half did not fall. Instead, it survived and grew into a powerful new civilization with its own distinct culture.
This new empire was centered on its capital, Constantinople . Its people spoke Greek instead of Latin and built their society around the Christian faith.
Common Questions
How did the Eastern Empire forge a new identity?
After Western Rome fell, the eastern half survived and evolved into the Byzantine Empire. Its people spoke Greek instead of Latin, built their society around Christianity, and created a new civilization centered on Constantinople.
What is the Byzantine Empire?
The Byzantine Empire was the continuation of the Eastern Roman Empire after Western Rome's collapse. Centered on Constantinople (modern Istanbul), it was a Greek-speaking Christian civilization that lasted nearly 1000 years until 1453.
Why do historians call it the Byzantine Empire if its people called themselves Romans?
The empire's people saw themselves as Romans continuing the Roman tradition. Historians use the term 'Byzantine' to distinguish the medieval eastern empire from the ancient Roman Empire, highlighting its distinct Greek and Christian character.
What chapter in myWorld Interactive Grade 7 covers the Byzantine Empire's identity?
Chapter 1: The Roman and Byzantine Empires in California myWorld Interactive Grade 7 covers how the Eastern Empire forged a new identity.
What made the Byzantine Empire different from the Western Roman Empire?
The Byzantine Empire used Greek rather than Latin, placed Eastern Orthodox Christianity at its center, and developed unique art and architectural styles. Its capital Constantinople became one of the world's greatest medieval cities.