The Byzantine Empire
The Byzantine Empire was a continuation of the Roman Empire. It is also known as the East Roman Empire because it ruled what had been the eastern part of the Roman Empire. During the A.D. 500's, the period of its greatest size, the Byzantine Empire included parts of southern and eastern Europe, of northern Africa, and of the Middle East.
The Byzantine Empire played several important roles in history. It protected much of Europe from the attacks of such eastern invaders as the Arabs and Turks. The Byzantines preserved ancient Greek literature and philosophy, as well as Roman governmental and legal traditions. Christianity, Greek culture, and Roman customs flourished in the empire, which thus served as a link between ancient and modern European civilization.
Excerpt adapted from the "Byzantine Empire" article, The World Book Encyclopedia © 1999