History of Wars Summary 17 - Justinian's Expansionist Wars 6 Mediterranean Islands and Maritime Strongholds

Justinian's conquest of the West did not stop at North Africa and Italy. The Eastern Roman army strengthened the network between Western territories by securing key Mediterranean islands and coastal areas. Sicily became a crucial hub connecting Italy and North Africa, and Sardinia and Corsica also fell under the empire's influence. These islands were not merely territories but maritime strongholds for transporting troops and supplies and for operating fleets. With the establishment of sea lanes connecting Carthage in North Africa and Ravenna in Italy, the Eastern Roman Empire was able to exert considerable influence in the Western Mediterranean once again. However, maintaining expanded territories required stationing garrisons, collecting taxes, and operating administrative organizations in each region. The prolonged wars devastated rural areas and cities, placing a significant burden on local populations. Thus, while Justinian's conquests visually represented the revival of the Roman Empire on the map, actual rule demanded substantial costs. Sicily, in particular, was utilized as a key supply base linking North Africa and Italy.