Answer:
Explanation:
The decline of the Byzantine Empire is attributed to multiple causes according to historians. Here are some of the commonly mentioned causes:
1. Military defeats: The Byzantine Empire faced several military defeats against external forces, such as the Arab invasions in the 7th century and the Seljuk Turks in the 11th century. These defeats weakened the empire's military power and territorial control.
2. Economic challenges: The Byzantine Empire experienced economic challenges, including financial mismanagement, corruption, and high taxation. These factors led to economic instability, reduced productivity, and a decline in trade and commerce.
3. Internal divisions and political instability: Internal divisions within the Byzantine Empire, including power struggles, political factions, and dynastic disputes, weakened its governance and hindered effective decision-making.
4. Crusades and external pressures: The Byzantine Empire was significantly impacted by the Crusades, as it faced both military and political pressures from Western European powers. The Crusaders often posed a threat to Byzantine territories and disrupted trade routes.
Regarding the Battle of Manzikert, which took place in 1071, it is considered an important event in the decline of the Byzantine Empire. The battle resulted in a significant defeat for the Byzantines against the Seljuk Turks. It led to the loss of Anatolia, a crucial region, and exposed the empire to further invasions. The defeat at Manzikert weakened the Byzantine military and territorial control, contributing to the overall decline of the empire.
It is important to note that while the Battle of Manzikert is recognized as a significant event, historians consider the decline of the Byzantine Empire to be the result of a combination of multiple factors over a long period of time, rather than being solely attributed to one event or cause.
