Battle of Dara, 530 AD (Part 1/2) Rise of Belisarius

The video explores the Byzantine-Persian conflicts, focusing on military strategies, economic reforms, and diplomatic maneuvers. It highlights the efforts of Byzantine rulers like Anastasius and Justinian to strengthen their empire through fortifications and alliances. The video also delves into the Persian side, detailing Kawad's reforms and the succession challenges he faced. The narrative culminates in the escalation of conflicts, with both empires vying for dominance in the region.

What was the primary goal of early Byzantine emperors?

• To expand into Asia

• To restore the old Roman Empire

• To form alliances with the Sasanians

• To conquer the Western Roman Empire

What was a significant military disadvantage of the Byzantine Empire compared to the Sasanians?

• Lack of naval power

• Lack of shock infantry and siege equipment

• Lack of defensive fortifications

• Lack of cavalry

Which city did Emperor Anastasius fortify to strengthen the Byzantine eastern border?

• Alexandria

• Constantinople

• Antioch

• Daraa

How did Justin attempt to gain an advantage over Persia?

• By increasing taxes on trade

• By creating buffer zones and staging points

• By invading Persia directly

• By forming alliances with the Huns

What was the outcome of Justin's support for the Aksumite invasion?

• Control over valuable trade routes

• Loss of Byzantine territories

• Increased military conflicts with the Huns

• Strengthening of Sasanian influence

Why did Kawad I approach Justin for the adoption of his son Kosrow?

• To end the proxy wars

• To gain control over Byzantine territories

• To form a military alliance

• To secure Kosrow's succession

What was a key reason for the breakdown of negotiations between Kawad and Justin?

• Military defeat of the Sasanians

• Religious differences

• Offense taken by Kawad over adoption terms

• Disagreement over trade routes

What was Justinian's strategy to counter Sasanian advances?

• Increasing taxes on the nobility

• Forming alliances with the Huns

• Dividing command in the east

• Strengthening naval forces

Which region saw open conflict at the onset of Justinian's reign?

• Trans Caucasus

• Northern Africa

• Southern Arabia

• Western Europe

What was the result of the Sasanian attempt to press into Lasika?

• Formation of a new alliance

• Retreat of Byzantine forces

• Capture of several fortresses

• Complete victory for the Sasanians