Justinian's Reforms and the Nika Riots

The video discusses the Nika Riots of 532 AD in Constantinople during Emperor Justinian's reign. The riots were fueled by tensions between chariot racing factions, the Blues and Greens, exacerbated by food shortages and inflation. The violence escalated, threatening Justinian's rule, but was suppressed with military force. In the aftermath, Justinian implemented reforms to stabilize the economy and rebuilt the city, including the construction of the Hagia Sophia. These efforts strengthened Constantinople, leaving a lasting legacy.

What were the two main factions involved in the Nika Riots?

• The Yellows and the Purples

• The Blacks and the Oranges

• The Blues and the Greens

• The Reds and the Whites

What economic issue contributed to the unrest in Constantinople before the Nika Riots?

• High employment rates

• Stable food prices

• Inflation and food shortages

• Excessive government savings

What event marked the beginning of the Nika Riots?

• A royal wedding

• A military parade

• A chariot race at the Hippodrome

• A religious festival

What was the initial reaction of Emperor Justinian to the severity of the riots?

• He negotiated with the rioters

• He considered fleeing but was convinced to stay

• He ignored the riots

• He immediately fled the city

Who played a crucial role in convincing Justinian to stay and address the riots?

• His chief advisor

• His wife, Empress Theodora

• The leader of the Blues

• The leader of the Greens

What was one of Justinian's first actions to address the issues that led to the riots?

• He increased taxes

• He built a new palace

• He imported grain from Egypt

• He banned chariot races

How did Justinian address the problem of inflation after the riots?

• By banning foreign trade

• By increasing government salaries

• By reforming the tax system and reducing overspending

• By printing more money

What significant structure was built as part of the reconstruction efforts after the riots?

• The Eiffel Tower

• The Hagia Sophia

• The Great Wall

• The Colosseum

What was the long-term impact of Justinian's reforms on Constantinople?

• It became a great cultural and economic center

• It remained unchanged

• It became a minor city

• It was abandoned

What does the word 'Nika' mean, which was chanted during the riots?

• Freedom

• Conquer

• Peace

• Victory