Evaluate the political, religious, cultural, and economic factors which created three new civilizations (the Byzantine Empire, the Arab Caliphs, and the early kingdoms in the West) in the Mediterranean World between c. 400 CE and c. 1000 CE.  Which do you feel was the most successful medieval civilization?  Why?  (Discuss all three civilizations before making a final evaluation).  the year 1000 ce is the dividing line between question #1 and question #2.  That means you may not discuss the Crusades in question #1, nor may you talk about Charlemagne in question #2, no matter how highly tempted you may feel.  This provision will be strictly enforced.