Document #2. Justinian’s Accomplishments
At the core of Justinian’s goals as a leader was reestablishing the greatness of the Roman empire. He sought to do this in three ways. First, he engaged in several battles to recapture (take over) the land lost to barbarian invaders during the decline of the Roman empire. Second, rebuilding the capital city of Constantinople​ after the riots and fires of 532 CE. Third, and most memorable is the drafting of ​Justinian’s Code​. Justinian set up a commission to collect and revise all of the Roman laws. In 529 CE, Justinian published the first set of laws known as the “Body of Civil Law” of Justinian’s Code. The code included laws on marriage, slavery, property ownership, women’s rights, and criminal justice. Also included was an outline of the law and a collection of Justinian’s own new laws. Justinian used the law to unify his empire under his control and provide a sense of stability for his people. Justinian’s Code did not only have an effect of the Byzantine empire. Over the centuries, it became the basis of legal systems in Europe today.
1. What were Justinian’s three steps to reestablishing the greatness of the Roman Empire?
2. What is the Justinian Code?
3. Why is the Justinian’s Code significant to us today?