How was the Byzantine military structured?
The infantry of the comitatenses was organized in regiments (variously named legiones, auxilia or just numeri) of about 500–1,200 men. They were still the heavy infantry of old, with a spear or sword, shield, body armour and a helmet. But now each regiment was supported by a detachment of light infantry skirmishers.
What was the power structure of the Byzantine Empire in religious matters?
In religious matters, what best describes the power structure in the Byzantine Empire? The emperor had power over the patriarch. What does the dome of Hagia Sophia represent? What best describes the economic situation of people in Constantinople?
What type of military did the Byzantine Empire have?
Byzantine army. Jump to navigation Jump to search. The Byzantine army or Eastern Roman army was the primary military body of the Byzantine armed forces, serving alongside the Byzantine navy. A direct continuation of the Roman army, the Eastern Roman army maintained a similar level of discipline, strategic prowess and organization.
What were the Byzantine battlefield tactics?
Byzantine battlefield tactics, although highly flexible and adaptable, were based invariably on archery first, then shock assault as needed. Since everyone in the army except the heavy infantry carried a bow, an incredible amount of firepower could be directed against the enemy.
Why did the Byzantines develop the theme system?
Restricted to a largely defensive role in the 7th to mid-9th centuries, the Byzantines developed the theme-system to counter the more powerful Caliphate.
How did the Battle of Manzikert affect the Byzantine Empire?
The Battle of Manzikert in 1071 and the subsequent Seljuk invasions, together with the arrival of the Crusades and the incursions of the Normans, would severely weaken the Byzantine state and its military, which increasingly had to rely on foreign mercenaries.