While the Western Roman Empire had collapsed at the outset of the Middle Ages, its Eastern half, the Eastern Roman Empire, was able to survive and flourish. This was due mainly to its strategic location for commerce but also to the way it was able to hold back its enemies.
Despite the fall of the Western Roman Empire, the Eastern half, known as the Eastern Roman Empire, remained strong and prosperous. Its success stemmed from its strategic location for trade and its effective defense against enemies.