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Explore the pivotal events that shaped Europe during the Early and Middle Ages, including the fall of Western Rome, the rise of the Byzantine Empire, the Church Split, and the emergence of powerful Germanic Kingdoms. Understand the conflicts and cultural differences that reshaped the continent.
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The Early Middle Ages In Europe
Fall of Western Rome • Rome fell for many reasons, but one of the most important reasons were the constant attacks of German Invaders • These attacks forced Emperor Constantine to move his capital East • He renamed the Greek city Byzantium, Constantinople
Rise of the Byzantine Empire • The Byzantine Empire blended Greek, Roman, and Christian influnces • It reached its height under Justinian (527-565) • He reconquered many lands lost to invaders • Justinian was an autocratic leader, best remembered for his Code of Laws • His Successors lost most of these lands
Christianity • Differences grew in the Byzantine Christianity and Roman Catholics • Difference included: Priests right to marry, Byzantines used Greek not Latin, Byzantines focused on Easter not Christmas • Byzantines rejected the idea that the Pope was the head of all Christians. Their Emperor was the technical head of the church
Church Split • A Byzantine Emperor Outlawed religious Icons (images of Christ, Virgin Mary, Saints) • The pope excommunicates the Emperor • The emperor excommunicates the Pope • We have the Schism of 1054
Germanic Kingdoms • Back in western europe, German tribes were separating Europe into kingdoms. • The strongest of the kingdoms were the Franks who captured the land of Gaul (France) • King Clovis of the Franks converted to Christianity and gained great support in the land
Germanic Kingdoms • With the rise and spread of Islam occurring, the Franks under King Charles Martel had to fend of invasions from Muslims • With their victory over the Muslims, Christians believed God was on their side • This set the stage for tensions between Muslims and Christians