What impact did the rise of Constantinople have on the Roman Empire?

The rise of Constantinople significantly impacted the Roman Empire by causing vulnerabilities that ultimately led to attacks. When Constantinople was established as the new capital of the Roman Empire in 330 CE, it marked a shift in political power and resources. The focus on the eastern part of the empire created a divide between the western and eastern regions.

As the eastern half gained more prominence and resources, the western Roman Empire became increasingly marginalized. This division weakened the western territories, making them more susceptible to invasions from various barbarian groups, such as the Visigoths and Vandals, who took advantage of the situation. The shift in focus to Constantinople contributed to the political fragmentation and military decline of the western territories, which ultimately culminated in the fall of the Western Roman Empire in the late 5th century.

The other options do not accurately reflect the historical consequences of Constantinople's rise. The military presence did not strengthen the western part of the Empire, and there was no promotion of democracy or encouragement of trade routes to the Americas, as those developments occurred significantly later in history.