Final answer:
The Roman Empire divided into the Eastern and Western Empires after Theodosius I, with the East prospering until 1453 and the West falling around 476/80 CE. The Eastern Empire managed threats with diplomacy and wealth, while the Western was overwhelmed by invasions. Both empires had significant differences in geography, politics, and cultural integration strategies.
Step-by-step explanation:
Comparison of the Eastern and Western Roman Empires
After the death of Julius Caesar, Rome experienced chaos before being reorganized under Emperor Augustus Caesar. The Roman Empire enjoyed a period of prosperity that stretched from 27 BC to 395 CE and included territories like Gaul and Syria. Following the last unified ruler, Emperor Theodosius I, his sons divided the Empire with Arcadius in the East and Honorius in the West. The Eastern Roman Empire, based in Constantinople, managed its frontiers and invaders with strategic wealth distribution and thrived as a result, persisting until 1453.
In contrast, the Western Roman Empire, with its capital moving to Ravenna, faced more extensive borders along the Rhine and Danube Rivers, making it prone to invasions and leading to its downfall around 476/80 CE.
Emperor Claudius shaped Roman citizenship by expanding and defining what it meant to be Roman. Despite facing opposition, he supported the integration of new citizens into the Roman power structure, illustrating the dynamic nature of Roman identity. Differences in regional geography, politics, and social challenges marked the divide between the two halves of the Empire, with the East successfully maneuvering around potential threats and the West collapsing under their weight.
The Julio-Claudian emperors, who reigned during the united Empire, dealt with public reception challenges, and expansion of empire boundaries, with notable emperors like Nero focusing on consolidating personal power. The reign of these emperors ended with civil unrest and brief successive emperors following Nero's rule.