New Configurations (1050-1150) - Byzantium: Bloodied but Unbowed

8 important questions on New Configurations (1050-1150) - Byzantium: Bloodied but Unbowed

Who invaded Byzantium?

  • In the Balkans, Turkic Pechenegs raided with ease.
  • The Normans, some of whom had established themselves in southern Italy, began attacks on Byzantine territory there and conquered its last stronghold, Bari, in 1071, precisely when the Seljuks defeated the Byzantines in Manzikert.
  • Entering Muslim Sicily in 1060, the Normans conquered it by 1093. Meanwhile, their knights attacked Byzantine territory.

What did the Normans rule when Roger came to the throne?

When Norman King Roger II (r.1130-1154) came to the throne, he ruled a realm that ran from southern Italy to Palermo - the Kingdom of Sicily.

Of what was the army largely composed?

The emperor's army was largely composed of mercenaries - Turks and Rus, as had long been the case, and increasingly Normans and Franks as well.
  • Higher grades + faster learning
  • Never study anything twice
  • 100% sure, 100% understanding
Discover Study Smart

How did the Byzantines confront their invaders?

The Byzantines were not entirely dependent on armed force; in many instances they turned to diplomacy to confront their invaders.

How did Constantine IX handle Pechenegs?

When Emperor Constantine IX (r.1042-1055) was unable to prevent the Pechenegs from entering the Balkans, he shifted policy, welcoming them, administering baptism, conferring titles, and settling them in depopulated regions.

What changes were there in the imperial court?

The model of the "public" emperor ruling alone with the aid of a civil service gave way to a less costly, more "familial" model of government.

What did Alexius I Comnenus do?

  • Alexius I Comnenus (r.1081-1118), a Dalassenus on his mother's side, managed to bring most of the major families together through a series of marriage alliances.
  • Until her death in c.1102, Anna Dalassena, Alexius's mother, held the reins of government while Alexius occupied himself with military matters.

How was the economy of the Byzantine Empire buoyed?

  • Its economy was buoyed by agricultural production and population growth.
  • Its manufactured goods - silks, oil, dyes, pottery, bronzes, ivories and glass - were in high demand in markets ranging from Rus' to Spain.
  • Italian traders acted as intermediaries.

The question on the page originate from the summary of the following study material:

  • A unique study and practice tool
  • Never study anything twice again
  • Get the grades you hope for
  • 100% sure, 100% understanding
Remember faster, study better. Scientifically proven.
Trustpilot Logo