Byzantine Economy explores the economic foundations of the Byzantine Empire, revealing how its sophisticated systems of trade, taxation, and currency allowed it to thrive for over a millennium. The book argues that economic stability, achieved through astute fiscal policy and a reliable monetary system centered on the nomisma, was crucial to the empire's longevity. Intriguingly, the Byzantine Empire maintained a remarkably stable gold-backed currency for centuries, a testament to their monetary policy. Further, their strategic control of trade networks, from the silk roads to Mediterranean routes, allowed them to accumulate wealth and influence. The book uniquely emphasizes the interconnectedness of trade, taxation, and currency stability, showcasing how these elements interacted to create a resilient economic system.
Beginning with the geographical and historical context, the narrative progresses to examine Byzantine society and the impact of economic policies on various social strata. The core sections delve into trade networks, the complex system of taxation, and the role of the nomisma in international trade, drawing upon primary sources like legal codes, merchant contracts, and numismatic analysis. This approach provides a nuanced perspective on the relationship between economic policy and political stability in world history.
