Background
Because of the Slavs, Bulgars, and Muslims, the Byzantinians lost much of their land. The territory had diminished to Asia Minor, part of the Balkans, and southern Italy by 750. Michael III was responsible for the rise in power in the Byzantine Empire in the 9th century. Many reforms were made throughout the empire, and iconoclasm was banished. Even though theses improvements were made, there were still outside threats of attacks. There were also internal problems as well. There were disputes between the Pope (western Christian church) and the patriarch of Constantinople (eastern Orthodox church). The patriarch condemned the Pope for his belief and acceptance of a new Nicene Creed. The patriarch got bishops to agree with him, and the Pope was excommunicated. This was just the start of disputes and separation between the eastern and wester Christian churches.
The Macedonian Dynasty
There came to be a new set of emperors, referred to as the Macedonians, who were able to deal with Michael's problems. They kept the borders defended, and even executed attacks. These emperors viewed the Byzantine empire like it was part of the Roman Christian Empire. They began to help free tenant farmers to become established and stable again, not fearing the aristocratic land owners. They expanded trade with western Europe by selling silk and metal. Because of this, Constantinople became a tourist attraction once again, and the people prospered.
The Christian missionaries also expanded the Byzantinian culture when they went to foreign lands. One remarkable conversion was that of the Russian prince of Kiev in 987.
The civil service improved when the use of intelligent aristocrats was started. There were also some very good emperors such as Leo VI and Basil II. The military also prospered, consisting of generals, soldiers, and good judgment. They were able to expand their territories to Crete, Cypress, eastern and western Bulgaria, and Syria. The empire was now at top speed and in the best shape of its history.
The Christian missionaries also expanded the Byzantinian culture when they went to foreign lands. One remarkable conversion was that of the Russian prince of Kiev in 987.
The civil service improved when the use of intelligent aristocrats was started. There were also some very good emperors such as Leo VI and Basil II. The military also prospered, consisting of generals, soldiers, and good judgment. They were able to expand their territories to Crete, Cypress, eastern and western Bulgaria, and Syria. The empire was now at top speed and in the best shape of its history.