Question

What was the issue that almost destroyed the Byzantine Empire in the eighth century?

1) Economic collapse
2) Invasion by the Arabs
3) Political instability
4) Plague outbreak

Answer 1

The issue that almost destroyed the Byzantine Empire in the eighth century was the invasion by the Arabs, which led to significant territorial losses and economic decline.

Step-by-step explanation:

The issue that almost destroyed the Byzantine Empire in the eighth century was invasion by the Arabs. The seventh century saw the rise of Islam in Arabia, with subsequent attacks by Arab invaders leading to significant territorial losses for the Byzantine Empire, including Syria and Egypt. The Arabs conquered the vital region of Egypt, which was a blow to the Byzantine economy due to loss of revenue from the fertile Nile Valley and the disruption of Mediterranean trade routes. This period marked the start of what some historians call the 'dark ages' or 'transitional period' in Byzantine history. One of the factors that contributed to the Byzantine Empire's survival through these difficulties was its adept use of diplomacy, even setting up a 'Bureau of Barbarians' to gather intelligence on potential allies and enemies, and to prepare for diplomatic missions.

Answer 2

The issue that almost destroyed the Byzantine Empire in the eighth century was the invasion by the Arabs, which led to significant territorial losses and economic decline.

Step-by-step explanation:

The issue that almost destroyed the Byzantine Empire in the eighth century was invasion by the Arabs. The seventh century saw the rise of Islam in Arabia, with subsequent attacks by Arab invaders leading to significant territorial losses for the Byzantine Empire, including Syria and Egypt. The Arabs conquered the vital region of Egypt, which was a blow to the Byzantine economy due to loss of revenue from the fertile Nile Valley and the disruption of Mediterranean trade routes. This period marked the start of what some historians call the 'dark ages' or 'transitional period' in Byzantine history. One of the factors that contributed to the Byzantine Empire's survival through these difficulties was its adept use of diplomacy, even setting up a 'Bureau of Barbarians' to gather intelligence on potential allies and enemies, and to prepare for diplomatic missions.