|
1. Later Military Strategy- probably formalized by Diocletian, but perhaps already established by earlier emperors - inner field armies: a concession to the overwhelming numbers of enemies - outer defense armies of farmer-soldiers - problems of troops living in cities (discipline, etc.) 2. Constantine (308-37)- 306 acclaimed emperor by army, then a complex series of civil wars - Western emperor 312; sole emperor of East and West in 324 - reestablished a dynastic succession. Conversion to Christianity- vision before Battle at Milvian Bridge (312): "under this sign you will conquer" - 313 Edict of Milan, extending toleration to the Christians - 325 at the Council of Nicaea, Christianity made official religion of the empire Constantinople- Constantinople (now Istanbul) the new capital and leading city of empire. - its strategic advantages were enormous Economic/Administrative Reforms - tendency to continue the work of Diocletian Cultural Shifts- a distinctively Christian culture emerges under Constantine Division into East and West - 395, Theodosius on deathbed, divided the Roman Empire between his two sons - East grew steadily different, adopted Greek language and culture - In the West, decline: Rome sacked twice, falls in 476 3. Why Rome Fell- various factors:
|