Byzantine decline

The Byzantine decline refers to the gradual weakening of the Byzantine Empire from the 11th century onward, due to a combination of internal instability, economic decline, military defeats, and territorial losses. Factors such as corruption, political chaos, and weakened defenses made it difficult to maintain control over its vast territories. External pressures from emerging powers like the Seljuk Turks, Crusaders, and later the Ottoman Turks further eroded its borders. Over time, these challenges diminished the empire’s influence, leading to its eventual fall with the conquest of Constantinople in 1453. The decline marked the end of a major medieval empire and shifted regional power dynamics.