The Byzantine Civil Wars were a series of internal conflicts within the Byzantine Empire that occurred from the 4th to the 15th centuries. These wars often arose from disputes over succession, power struggles among nobles, and regional rivalries. Key figures, such as emperors and military leaders, frequently vied for control, leading to significant political instability. These civil wars had profound effects on the empire, weakening its military and economic strength. Notable conflicts include the Nika Riots in 532 and the Palaiologos Civil War in the 14th century. Ultimately, these internal divisions contributed to the empire's decline and vulnerability to external threats.