alternatehistory.com

Say that Justin II had never lost Italy to the Lombards, what would be the result? A Byzantine Empire including Italy would have more resources, and far more strategic depth against an enemy invading from the east. Plus, it would have a larger share of Latin- as opposed to Greek-speaking subjects. How would this affect the subsequent development of the Empire? Would Latin be kept in use for longer? How would Byzantium fare in its wars against the Sassanids and Muslims (assuming these conquests aren't butterflied away, of course)? And, even if they did end up losing Syria, Egypt and North Africa, would a Byzantine state consisting of Anatolia + Greece + Italy manage to remain a great power anyway?
Top