IntroductionAn empire is defined as a group of nations or countries ruled by a single, powerful force; often an emperor or empress. The Byzantine Empire, originally known as the Eastern Roman Empire and also known as Byzantium, is an example of an influential civilization that significantly altered past ways of life so that today's societies develop as they did. The Byzantine Empire contained countless crucial elements that made the civilization the intriguing society that it was. Politics was essential to the rise of the Byzantine Empire. The political structure was similar to that of the Romans and gave the Empire much success at its peak. Byzantium was a civilization with a prosperous economy established throughout the world. The economy of the Byzantine Empire was largely based on trade and agriculture. Finally, the social aspects of the empire were beneficial to future civilizations. By taking the first step towards a unified empire in the Christian religion, the Byzantines were able to continue to develop the religion and began to shape it as it is known today. There have been many empires throughout history with political, economic and societal achievements, Byzantium being one of them. PoliticsEstablished in 330 CE due to the fall and division of the Roman Empire, Byzantium had a similar political structure to its predecessor, with many unique empires. interpretations. The capital Constantinople was the heart of the Empire. The government, army, and emperor all resided in the capital of the Empire (Explore Byzantium). The Empire was ruled by an autocracy, meaning the emperor had complete control over all of society. This included all governments...... middle of paper ......Often hidden by the history of the Roman Empire, the Byzantine Empire plays an important role in understanding the Mediterranean's past.Works cited "Daily life in Byzantium". . Heritage of Macedonia, nd Web. June 2, 2014. “Explore Byzantium.” . Explore Byzantium, January 1, 2003. Web. June 3, 2014. .Knox, Ellis L.. “The Byzantine Empire.” ORB: The online reference work for medieval studies. Ellis L. Knox, January 1, 1999. Web. June 4, 2014. .Ready, Jona. “Byzantine Empire”. Encyclopedia of ancient history. Ancient History Encyclopedia Limited, April 28, 2011. Web. May 25, 2014. .Sherrard, Philip. The great ages of man Byzantium. New York: Time Inc., 1966. Print.