The Byzantine Empire inherited an incredibly advanced economy from the Roman past, complete with a functioning bureaucracy, tax collection systems and wide ranging trade links. This economy remained extremely powerful throughout the medieval period - however, demographic changes, combined with a series of crises including the disastrous Fourth Crusade, saw the Byzantine economy dwindle to a shell of its former self by the fall of Constantinople in 1453.

A short history mini-documentary covering the history of the Byzantine economy.

All materials are used under fair use for education and commentary.

Music:
- Chopin - Nocturne in B flat minor, Op. 9 No.1 (   • Nocturne in B flat minor, Op. 9 no. 1  )
- Chopin - Waltz No. 7 in c sharp minor, Op. 64,2 (   • Waltz No. 7 in c sharp minor, Op. 64,2  )
- Chopin - Nocturne No. 8 in D flat Major, Op. 27,2 (   • Nocturne for Piano, No. 8 in D flat M...  )