Final answer:
The biggest causes of the decline of the Byzantine Empire were external invasions, economic struggles, political instability, and the rise of the Crusades. External invasions, including attacks by the Seljuk Turks and the Ottoman Empire, were the biggest cause of the decline.
Step-by-step explanation:
The biggest causes of the decline of the Byzantine Empire include:
- External invasions: The empire faced constant attacks from various external forces, such as the Seljuk Turks and the Ottoman Empire. These invasions weakened the empire's military and caused significant territorial losses.
- Economic struggles: The empire experienced financial difficulties due to a decline in trade, high taxation, and corruption. This led to a decrease in wealth and resources, which affected the overall stability of the empire.
- Political instability: Power struggles, weak leadership, and civil unrest plagued the Byzantine Empire. These internal conflicts weakened the empire's ability to defend itself and maintain control over its territories.
- The rise of the Crusades: The Crusades, initiated by Western European powers, diverted the Byzantine Empire's attention and resources away from its own defense and consolidation efforts, further contributing to its decline.
Among these causes, the decline of the Byzantine Empire can be attributed in large part to external invasions as the biggest cause. The constant attacks and territorial losses significantly weakened the empire's military and ultimately led to its downfall.
Learn more about Decline of the Byzantine Empire