| Interactions | Exchange • Collaboration |
| Civilizations | Roman Empire • Islamic caliphates |
| Cultural achievements | Art • Literature • Music |
| Leading center of power | Constantinople |
| Scientific advancements | Astronomy • Mathematics • Medicine |
| Divisions of Roman Empire | Eastern • African • Italian |
| Civilizations involved in interactions | Roman Empire • Middle East • North Africa |
During the early 9th century (or, C. 800), the world of Western Civilization experienced a period of stability, prosperity, and notable achievements. Although some regions faced threats and challenges, this era showcased the influence of the threefold Roman Empire, the Islamic caliphates, the Vikings, and the rapid development of science and the arts.
The Eastern Roman (also known as the Byzantine) Empire, presided over by Emperor Leo III since 717, remained the predominant power during this period, maintaining its strong grip over Asia Minor, the Balkans, and parts of Italy. Meanwhile, the Roman Empire had divided into three distinct and allied polities: Eastern, African, and Italian. With Constantinople as the world's leading center of influence and power, the Empire proved a formidable presence, even while facing occasional threats from external forces.
In the Middle East and North Africa, various Islamic caliphates held sway, such as the Abbasid, Umayyad, and Fatimid caliphates. These expansive empires traded goods and ideas with their neighbors in the Arabian Peninsula, Iran, India, and China. Despite occasional conflict, exchanges between the Muslim and Roman spheres of influence fostered a rich cultural and intellectual environment.
Viking invasions and migrations still occurred during the 9th century, although they proved less widespread and disruptive than in our reality. The Vikings and their Scandinavian neighbors were more interested in exploration and trade than conquest and expansion. Through this period, the Norsemen established a significant presence as traders and navigators in the Baltic, North Atlantic, and North Sea, with their influence also reaching as far as Greenland.
This alternative 9th century experienced a significant expansion in scientific knowledge and the spread of literacy. Scholars from all over the world convened in Constantinople, fostering collaboration and cross-cultural exchange. This remarkable growth in knowledge owed much to such influential thinkers as Basil the Philosopher, Mansur al-Hallaj, and Alfred the Great. Novel approaches to literature, music, astronomy, and mathematics emerged and flourished, setting the stage for many more centuries of civilization.
In contrast to the original 9th century, the arts and culture thrived in this alternate timeline. The influence of Roman, Islamic, and Viking societies produced a diverse and varied range of expressions in literature, architecture, and visual arts. New forms of music also emerged as a result of this cosmopolitan, multicultural environment. Important figures such as Theophylact Simocatta, Gislebert, and Marianus Scottus emerged as significant contributors to the arts during this period.
In conclusion, C. 800 represented a time when Western Civilization experienced a period of stability, scientific growth, and cultural richness. Despite the ongoing political and military struggles faced by the various Roman empires and the Islamic caliphates, the prevailing conditions allowed for remarkable social, intellectual, and artistic achievements.
