Thesis Statement: I believe the decline of the Byzantine Empire was primarily caused by a combination of internal strife, external threats, and economic factors that weakened its ability to sustain itself over time.
I think this because…
Fact 1 to support my statement: Internal political instability plagued the Byzantine Empire, with frequent power struggles, civil wars, and a lack of effective leadership. This fragmentation weakened central authority and made it difficult to address external threats and maintain control.
Fact 2 to support my statement: The rise of external pressures from emerging powers, such as the Seljuk Turks and later the Ottoman Turks, significantly weakened the Byzantine Empire. The loss of key territories and military engagements drained the empire's resources and morale, leading to further territorial losses.
Fact 3 to support my statement: Economic decline played a crucial role in the Byzantine Empire's deterioration. Trade routes that once enriched the empire were disrupted, and increased taxation to fund wars and military campaigns led to discontent among the populace, weakening support for the ruling authority.
Quote from research to support your statement: “The continuous territorial losses, combined with internal discord, left the Byzantine Empire struggling to maintain its former glory.” - John Haldon, historian specialized in Byzantine history.