Over the centuries, European empires have conquered continents, built new nations and reshaped the world. Some lasted for centuries, others burned bright and fell fast. Here are five empires that left the deepest mark. In 5th place, the Russian Empire. From 1721 to 1917, it grew into one of the largest states ever, covering around 22 million km² across Europe, Asia and even North America. In 4th place, the Napoleonic Empire. In barely ten years, it conquered much of the continent. Around 1812, France and its allies stretched from Hamburg to Rome, and its Civil Code still influences laws around the world. In 3rd place, the Ottoman Empire. Lasting more than six centuries, it spanned three continents, from the gates of Vienna to North Africa and the Persian Gulf. In 2nd place, the British Empire. At its peak in the 1920s, it covered about a quarter of the world's land and population, and its fleet ruled the seas. In 1st place, the Roman Empire. In 117 AD, it ruled around 60 million people and turned the Mediterranean into a Roman lake. Its law, its roads, its architecture and its language still shape the world, nearly two thousand years later. So what do you think: do you agree with this ranking, or does another empire deserve the top spot? Tell me in the comments! #empires #History #romanempire #europe #worldhistory - @histoire_obscur3