What were the major Byzantine military campaigns and conquests?

The Byzantine Empire, also known as the Eastern Roman Empire, was involved in several major military campaigns and conquests throughout its history. Some of the most significant ones include:

1. Justinian's Reconquest: Under Emperor Justinian I (527-565), the Byzantine Empire launched a series of military campaigns to reclaim territories that had been lost to various invaders. The most notable conquest was the reconquest of Italy, including the city of Rome, from the Ostrogoths. Justinian's armies also managed to recapture parts of North Africa and Spain.

2. Arab-Byzantine Wars: The Byzantine Empire faced a series of invasions from the expanding Arab Muslim forces during the 7th and 8th centuries. These wars resulted in the loss of significant territories, including Egypt, Syria, and Palestine. However, the Byzantines managed to successfully defend Constantinople against Arab sieges, preserving their capital and the core of their empire.

3. Bulgarian Wars: The Byzantine Empire engaged in several wars against the Bulgarian Empire during the 9th and 10th centuries. These conflicts were characterized by territorial disputes and power struggles. The Byzantines experienced both victories and defeats, but ultimately managed to maintain their influence over the Balkans.

4. Byzantine-Seljuk Wars: The Byzantine Empire clashed with the Seljuk Turks, a powerful Central Asian Muslim dynasty, during the 11th century. These wars were primarily fought over control of Anatolia (modern-day Turkey). The Byzantines suffered significant losses, leading to the gradual erosion of their territorial holdings in the region.

5. Byzantine Crusades: The Byzantine Empire became a target of the Crusaders during the 12th and 13th centuries. The Fourth Crusade, in particular, resulted in the sack of Constantinople by the Crusader forces in 1204. Although the Byzantines eventually managed to recapture their capital, the empire was severely weakened by this event.

These military campaigns and conquests played a crucial role in shaping the history of the Byzantine Empire. While some resulted in territorial gains, others led to significant losses and weakened the empire's overall power and influence.