Final answer:
The fall of the Byzantine Empire was influenced by factors such as the Plague of Justinian, invasions by Belisarius and other forces, weak leadership during the Macedonian period, the impact of the Crusades, and the rise of the Ottoman Turks.
Step-by-step explanation:
The fall of the Byzantine Empire was influenced by several factors:
- Justinian's Plague: The Plague of Justinian in 542 caused a significant decrease in the population, leading to a decline in military recruitment and morale. It also disrupted trade ties, which further impoverished the empire.
- Belisarius and invading forces: The empire faced invasions from various forces, including Belisarius and his army. These invasions weakened the empire's military capabilities and resulted in territorial losses.
- The Macedonians: Ineffective rulers and conflicts over succession weakened the empire. The loss of control over overseas territories, such as southern Italy and Sicily, affected trade and revenue.
- The Crusades: Constantinople was sacked during the Fourth Crusade in 1204, leading to bitter resentment and anti-Catholic sentiments among Orthodox Christians. The Crusades also diverted Byzantine resources, making them vulnerable to external threats.
- The Ottoman Turks: The rise of the Ottoman Turks in the thirteenth century gradually diminished the Byzantine Empire's power. The Turks occupied former Byzantine lands, including Constantinople, ultimately leading to its fall in 1453.