Late Roman Empire to Early Middle Ages

A collection of vocabulary flashcards covering important terms and concepts from the Late Roman Empire to the Early Middle Ages.

Diocletian

Roman Emperor who restored order after the 3rd-century chaos and created the Tetrarchy.

Tetrarchy

The rule of four, established by Diocletian, consisting of two senior emperors (Augusti) and two junior emperors (Caesars).

Constantinople

Capital city moved to Byzantium by Constantine I, becoming a pivotal location for the Eastern Empire.

Byzantine Empire

The Eastern Roman Empire that lasted approximately 1,000 years longer than Western Rome, falling in 1453.

Fall of Western Roman Empire

A gradual process referred to as 'Germanification,' involving the settling and Romanization of German tribes.

Limes Germanicus

A border system created by Rome that included forts and watchtowers, yet remained porous.

Clovis

Founder of the Merovingian Dynasty and Frankish king who reigned from 481-511 AD.

Battle of Tours

A significant battle in 732 AD where Frankish leader Charles Martel halted Muslim expansion into Europe.

Charlemagne

King of the Franks who ruled from 768-814 and was crowned 'Emperor of the Romans' in 800 AD.

Treaty of Verdun

An 843 agreement that divided Charlemagne's empire into three parts, shaping future France and Germany.

Feudal System

A hierarchical system in medieval society based on land ownership and obligations.

Manor System

A self-sufficient economic unit in medieval times that included agricultural land and a village.

Siege Warfare

Military strategy focused on surrounding and attacking fortified positions.

Hundred Years' War

A series of conflicts from 1337-1453 between England and France, marked by major English victories.

Economic Growth in Late Middle Ages

Increase in trade leading to a rise in merchants and manufacturers.

Renaissance Military Revolution

Transformation of military organization and tactics during the Renaissance period.

Martin Luther

Initiator of the Protestant Reformation who opposed indulgences and advocated for faith alone.

Edict of Nantes

A 1598 declaration by Henry IV of France granting religious tolerance to Protestants.

Louis XIV

Known as the 'Sun King,' he epitomized absolute monarchy in France and famously stated 'I am the state.'

Seven Years' War

The first global war fought between 1756-1763 involving conflict across North America, Europe, and India.

Key Themes in History

Continuity vs Change, Centralization of Power, Technology Changes Warfare, and Religion Shapes Politics.