1) Succession disputes: The Byzantine Empire was plagued by frequent succession disputes, in which different factions within the ruling elite fought for control of the throne. These conflicts often led to civil wars and power struggles, distracting the empire's leaders from effectively governing and defending the empire.
2) Political infighting: The ruling elite of the Byzantine Empire was often divided into factions based on family ties, regional loyalties, or personal rivalries. This constant political infighting resulted in a lack of cohesion and cooperation among the ruling class, further weakening the empire's central authority and hindering its ability to govern effectively.
3) Power struggles among the ruling elite: The Byzantine Empire's ruling elite was characterized by a constant struggle for power and influence. Ambitious nobles and powerful bureaucrats engaged in incessant power struggles, often resorting to intrigue, bribery, and even murder to gain or maintain positions of authority. This focus on personal gains and internal power struggles diverted resources and attention away from effectively defending the empire or effectively governing its territories.
give 3 facts to back this thesis statement up: The internal conflicts and instability within the Byzantine Empire, manifested through successions disputes, political infighting, and power struggles among the ruling elite, not only weakened the empire's central authority, but also hindered effective governance, undermined the empire's ability to defend itself, and impeded its ability to effectively govern its territories, thus contributing to its decline.
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