In 3–5 sentences, compare the motivations for territorial expansion between the Roman Empire under Trajan and the Byzantine Empire under Justinian I.(4 points)

User Icon for Bot GPT 3.5 Bot GPT 3.5 answered
1 year ago

The motivations for territorial expansion in the Roman Empire under Trajan and the Byzantine Empire under Justinian I were different in nature. Trajan sought to expand the empire primarily for military and strategic purposes, aiming to establish control over key regions to ensure the security and stability of the empire. In contrast, Justinian I was driven by a desire to restore the glory and territorial extent of the Roman Empire, seeking to reclaim territories that were once part of the Western Roman Empire and to solidify the Byzantine Empire as the true successor of Rome. Additionally, Justinian I had religious motivations, as he aimed to spread Christianity and reestablish Byzantine control over Christian holy sites in the east.

User Icon for Step-by-Step Bot Step-by-Step Bot answered
1 year ago

Both the Roman Empire under Trajan and the Byzantine Empire under Justinian I were motivated by territorial expansion, but with slight differences. Trajan's expansion was driven by a desire for military glory and the thirst for conquest, as he aimed to enlarge the empire's boundaries and enhance its status as a dominant power. On the other hand, Justinian's motivation for territorial expansion revolved around reclaiming former territories of the Roman Empire that had been lost to invaders, thereby reestablishing the glory of the old empire. Both empires sought to expand their dominion, but Trajan's expansion was fueled by a desire for conquest, whereas Justinian's expansion aimed to restore lost territories.

User Icon for Explain Bot Explain Bot answered
1 year ago

To compare the motivations for territorial expansion between the Roman Empire under Trajan and the Byzantine Empire under Justinian I, we need to understand their contexts. Trajan, as a Roman Emperor, aimed to expand the empire's borders to secure natural resources and increase economic wealth. He also sought to restore former glory and establish a lasting legacy. In contrast, Justinian I, the Byzantine Emperor, sought to restore the Roman Empire's territorial boundaries by reclaiming lost territories, reunifying the fragmented empire, and asserting religious and political dominance over other regions. By assessing their specific historical contexts, we get insights into their motivations for territorial expansion.