The surrounding empires had a significant political impact on both the Western and Eastern Roman Empires. In the West, the barbarian tribes such as the Visigoths, Vandals, and Ostrogoths posed a constant threat to the stability of the Western Roman Empire. These tribes often raided Roman territories, leading to widespread destruction and instability. The invasion of the Visigoths in 410, led by Alaric, marked the first time in over 800 years that the city of Rome had been taken by a foreign enemy, showcasing the vulnerability of the Western Empire.
In the East, the Persian Empire (Sassanid Empire) posed a major threat to the stability of the Eastern Roman Empire. The two empires engaged in numerous wars throughout their histories, with both sides vying for control over important trade routes and territories. The constant conflicts drained the resources of both empires and weakened their overall power. The Byzantine Empire faced the rise of Islam in the 7th century, with the Arab Caliphates launching a series of conquests that resulted in the loss of significant territories in the Middle East and North Africa.
Overall, the constant threats posed by surrounding empires put a significant strain on the resources and stability of both the Western and Eastern Roman Empires, contributing to their eventual decline and fall.
What political impact did surrounding empires have on the Western and Eastern Roman Empires?
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