Question

Which of the following statements correctly describes Justinian's impact on the Byzantine empire?

a.) Under Justinian, the Byzantine empire began a centuries-long expansion.
b.) Under Justinian, the Byzantine empire reached its largest size ever.
c.) Under Justinian, the Byzantine empire shrank to half its original size.
d.) Under Justinian, the Byzantine empire fell to the Ottoman Turks.

Answer 1

Under Emperor Justinian I, the Byzantine Empire reached its largest territorial extent, including the construction of significant architectural works like the Hagia Sophia. Despite the territory gained during his reign, his costly military campaigns against the Persians and others laid the groundwork for the empire's later territorial losses and gradual decline.

Step-by-step explanation:

Justinian's Impact on the Byzantine Empire

Emperor Justinian I had a significant impact on the Byzantine Empire during his reign from 527 to 565. The correct statement that describes Justinian's impact is that under his rule, the Byzantine empire reached its largest size ever. This expansion included territories in the Balkans, north Africa, the Levant, Italy, and parts of the Iberian Peninsula. Justinian is also remembered for his extensive building projects, notably the construction of the Hagia Sophia, and for his efforts to enforce religious uniformity and combat heresy within the empire.

Despite the expansion and architectural accomplishments, Justinian faced continuous wars, particularly against the Persians, which were costly and eventually affected the empire after his death. His reconquests in the west and the battles in the east drained the empire's resources, leading to the slow re-loss of these territories posthumously. The Byzantine Empire faced many external threats throughout its existence and while it was able to maintain itself for centuries, it gradually declined in power from the days of Justinian.