Everything Everywhere Daily The Empire That Never Existed
Dec 30, 2025
Delve into the intriguing argument that the Byzantine Empire never actually existed as its inhabitants identified as Romans. Discover how the term 'Byzantine' originated from scholars centuries later and why it simplifies a complex history. Explore significant events like the founding of Constantinople and the empire’s lengthy tenure until its fall in 1453. Learn about the enduring Roman identity through language, religion, and neighboring cultures. It’s a fascinating look at how history can be shaped by perspective and nomenclature.
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Byzantium Was Rome Continued
- The so-called Byzantine Empire was simply the Eastern continuation of the Roman Empire after the West fell.
- People in that state considered themselves Romans and traced authority back to Augustus and Julius Caesar.
Diocletian's Tetrarchy Shaped The East
- Administrative reforms split the Roman world into east and west under Diocletian's Tetrarchy to improve governance.
- Constantine later reunited the halves and founded Constantinople, reinforcing eastern continuity of Roman rule.
No Single Start Date Exists
- Constantine founded Nova Roma (Constantinople) and legalized Christianity, milestones some use to date the 'Byzantine' start.
- Theodosius' death in 395 split the empire permanently, another common starting marker.