1. Decline of the Byzantine Empire
By: Mr. Reising

2. Cornell Notes Topic: Cause for the fall of the Byzantine Empire
Essential Question: In your opinion, what was the biggest reason for the fall of the Byzantine Empire? Explain

3. Schism of 1054 Look at your notes/activity from the religious station
How would this have led to
the weakening of the Byzantine
Empire?
Weaker relationships between
Eastern and Western Europe
(Fewer allies)
Question: How does this image represent the main disagreement that occurred during the Schism of 1054?

4. Over Taxation
What issues could this lead to within an Empire?

5. CRUSADES Several Crusades
Byzantine Empire felt threatened by the growing Islamic Empires to the east
Even though they had disagreements over religion, Pope Urban II, in Western Europe, decided to come to the aid of the Byzantine Emperor, Alexius I.
Used Christianity to justify this “Holy War,” protecting the holy land (Jerusalem) from Muslims

6. CRUSADES!
“All who die, whether by land or by sea, or in a battle against the infidels, shall have immediate forgiveness of sins” – Pope Urban II
Adventure
Wealth
Fame
Looting, Plundering

7. Why Were the Crusades Bad for the Byzantine Empire?
The 4th Crusade went through Constantinople. Instead of going to fight the Muslims, they decided to attack the Byzantine, eager to destroy their trade competitor.
Greed led to the crusade stopping in Constantinople and burning, looting, and taking control of the city in 1204
Byzantines got it back, but were very weak because of this attack
Weakened enough for the Ottomans to take over

8. Invasion!!!! – The Final Blow to End the Byzantine Empire
Invaders from the Ottoman Empire cripple an already damaged empire in 1453

9. Plague and Crusades - The Final Blow to Feudalism
Crusades – Many of the Vassals and Lords left their manors to fight in the Crusades, sold their land, and freed their serfs.
New Tech – the Cannon and the Longbow made the Knight and the Castle Obsolete ( 100 years war)
Plague – So many people died, the demand for skilled workers allowed the serfs to demand higher wages and more rights, ending this slave-like system
Plague - People begin to realize life is short, and start to “live for today.” Some turn away from the Church and their Lords.

11. Essential Question
Critical Thinking: The Crusades was the first time in history that major, ongoing conflict occurred between Christianity and Islam. Do wars over religion still occur today? Explain why or why not.
Essential Question: In your opinion, what was the biggest reason for the fall of the Byzantine Empire? Explain - Discuss