Justinian I, born in Tauresium, Dardania, around 482 CE, became Roman emperor from 527 to 565 CE. He was the nephew of Justin I, who adopted him and ensured his education in jurisprudence, theology, and Roman history. Justinian was crowned co-emperor on April 1, 527 CE, and became the sole ruler after Justin's death on August 1, 527 CE. His reign was characterized by ambitious military campaigns aimed at restoring the territories of the Western Roman Empire, known as renovatio imperii.Justinian's general, Belisarius, successfully conquered the Vandal Kingdom in North Africa in 533 CE, followed by the Ostrogothic Kingdom in Italy, reclaiming territories such as Dalmatia, Sicily, and Rome. The praetorian prefect Liberius also established the province of Spania in the Iberian Peninsula. These military successes increased the Empire's annual revenue significantly. Justinian also engaged in conflicts with the Sasanian Empire, facing challenges during the reigns of Kavad I and Khosrow I.Justinian is noted for his legal reforms, particularly the Corpus Juris Civilis, which codified Roman law and influenced legal systems in many modern states. His reign saw a flourishing of Byzantine culture, exemplified by his extensive building projects, including the Hagia Sophia, which became a symbol of the Empire. He married Theodora, an actress, who became a significant political figure during his reign.Despite his achievements, Justinian faced challenges, including the Nika riots in 532 CE, which nearly cost him his throne. He responded with brutal suppression, resulting in significant civilian casualties. His reign was also marked by the outbreak of the plague in the early 540s, which affected the population and economy. Theodora died in 548 CE, and Justinian continued to rule until his death on November 14, 565 CE, leaving no heirs. He was succeeded by Justin II.Justinian's legislative efforts included laws aimed at protecting women and children, as well as restrictions on divorce. He also enforced religious orthodoxy, particularly against miaphysitism, and sought to unify the Empire under the Chalcedonian doctrine. His policies led to persecution of various religious groups, including pagans and Jews.Justinian's military campaigns included wars against the Sasanian Empire and the reconquest of North Africa and Italy. His military strategies were often executed by Belisarius and Narses, leading to temporary successes but also significant losses. The prolonged conflicts drained the Empire's resources and led to heavy taxation, which caused resentment among the populace.Justinian's architectural legacy includes the reconstruction of the Hagia Sophia and the establishment of various churches and fortifications throughout the Empire. His reign also saw advancements in trade and economic administration, although the Empire faced challenges from natural disasters and invasions by Slavic and Turkic peoples.Justinian's reign is documented by contemporary historians such as Procopius and John Malalas, who provide insights into his policies and the events of his time. His legacy as a ruler is complex, marked by both significant achievements and considerable challenges.