The historians' history of the world in twenty-five volumes, volume 07 : $b the history of the later Roman Empire

"The Historians' History of the World" by Henry Smith Williams is a comprehensive historical account written in the early 20th century. This extensive work, divided into twenty-five volumes, aims to present a narrative of the rise and development of various nations, primarily through the lens of significant historical writers from various eras. Volume 7 focuses on the Later Roman Empire, particularly its history in the east, bringing into discussion the evolution of this realm from the time of Theodosius to the eventual fall of Constantinople. The opening of this volume introduces the complexity of defining the Later Roman Empire. Williams presents the historical context leading to the empire's division following Theodosius's death in 395 AD while emphasizing the continuity of the eastern territories based in Constantinople. He starts by reflecting on the impact of various barbarian incursions and internal strife that ultimately transformed the empire, marking the transition from ancient Roman civilization to the Byzantine state. Throughout this introduction, Williams sets the stage for an in-depth exploration of how power dynamics, cultural shifts, and military conflicts shaped the future of the Eastern Roman Empire, while acknowledging the contributions of numerous historical figures and sources.