What was the Great Schism and how did it affect the Byzantine Empire?

History The Byzantine Empire Questions



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What was the Great Schism and how did it affect the Byzantine Empire?

The Great Schism refers to the split between the Eastern Orthodox Church and the Roman Catholic Church in 1054. It was primarily caused by theological and political differences, as well as disputes over authority and jurisdiction. The schism had a significant impact on the Byzantine Empire as it led to a permanent division between the Eastern and Western Christian churches. This division weakened the Byzantine Empire's influence and support from Western Europe, making it more vulnerable to external threats. Additionally, the schism further strained relations between the Byzantine Empire and the Latin West, contributing to the Fourth Crusade in 1204, which resulted in the sack of Constantinople and the fragmentation of the empire.