Which of the following was a major factor in the decline of the Byzantine Empire
The major factors that contributed to the decline of the Byzantine Empire include:
1. Economic decline: The Byzantine Empire faced financial difficulties due to constant wars, trade disruptions, and high taxation. This put a strain on the empire's resources and weakened its economy.
2. Military defeats: The Byzantine Empire suffered a series of military defeats at the hands of various enemies, including the Seljuk Turks, Crusaders, and Ottomans. These defeats weakened the empire's military power and territorial holdings.
3. Political instability: The Byzantine Empire faced frequent internal power struggles and civil wars among competing factions, which led to instability and weakened central authority.
4. Religious conflicts: The Byzantine Empire experienced religious conflicts, particularly the Great Schism of 1054, which led to a split between the Eastern Orthodox Church and the Roman Catholic Church. This weakened the empire's religious unity and influence.
5. External invasions: The Byzantine Empire faced constant invasions from various enemies, including the Seljuk Turks, Crusaders, and Ottoman Turks. These invasions gradually eroded the empire's territories and resources.
Overall, a combination of economic decline, military defeats, political instability, religious conflicts, and external invasions contributed to the decline of the Byzantine Empire.