4. The Byzantine Empire
The later years of the Byzantine Empire were characterized by a focus on luxury and bureaucratic infighting, which undermined its defenses and contributed to its fall in 1453. The court’s indulgence in opulence diverted resources from military preparedness, weakening the empire’s ability to repel external threats. Additionally, internal conflicts among officials hindered effective governance and strategic decision-making. These internal challenges, combined with external pressures, led to the eventual conquest of Constantinople by the Ottoman Empire. (smithsonianmag.com)
