Question

In 1-3 sentences, compare the motivations for territorial expansion between the Roman Empire under Trajan and the Byzantine Empire under Justinian I.(4 points)

Answer 1

Under Trajan, the Roman Empire's motivation for territorial expansion was largely driven by the desire for military glory, economic gain, and the consolidation of power, as seen in his campaigns in Dacia and the East. In contrast, Justinian I's ambitions for expansion were primarily focused on restoring the former glory of the Roman Empire, recovering lost territories, and unifying the Christian faith, as evidenced by his efforts to reconquer parts of the Western Roman Empire in Italy and North Africa. Both leaders sought to enhance their empires' prestige, but their approaches and underlying motivations reflected the differing contexts and challenges of their respective eras.