A response to below discussion of 120 words. 

The Byzantine Empire, with its capital in Constantinople, saw itself as the true heir to Rome. It preserved Roman traditions, laws, and even the Latin language. The Byzantines maintained a strong centralized government and a sophisticated bureaucracy, much like the Romans. While they inherited aspects of Roman culture, such as Christianity and some legal concepts, they developed their unique systems of governance and cultural practices. The Islamic Caliphate, which emerged in the 7th century, encompassed a vast territory and blended Arab, Persian, and other regional influences. While the Caliphate did not directly inherit Roman traditions, it absorbed and assimilated elements of Roman culture through conquests and interactions with Byzantine territories. The Caliphate developed distinct political and legal systems shaped by Islamic principles.

Gender roles in the Byzantine Empire, western European kingdoms, and the Islamic Caliphate between 500 and 950 varied across these cultures. In the Byzantine Empire, women had more rights and opportunities than their counterparts in other regions. Some Byzantine women held positions of power and influence, such as Empresses and regents. In Western European kingdoms, gender roles were more traditional, with women primarily occupying domestic and supportive roles. In the Islamic Caliphate, women had certain legal rights and responsibilities but were generally expected to fulfill traditional gender roles within the family and society.

In the Byzantine Empire, society was structured into distinct classes, including the aristocracy, clergy, and commoners. The aristocracy held significant wealth and power, while the clergy played a crucial role in religious affairs. The majority of the population was made up of commoners, comprising merchants, artisans, and peasants. In Western European kingdoms, feudalism shaped the social structure of kings, nobles, knights, and peasants. The Islamic Caliphate had a more egalitarian society, emphasizing religious equality and social mobility. 

In the Byzantine Empire, Christianity, specifically Eastern Orthodoxy, was the dominant religion. The Byzantines valued their religious traditions and had a solid connection to the Orthodox Church. In Western European kingdoms, Christianity played a significant role, but the specific branches varied. The Roman Catholic Church held influence, and the spread of Christianity continued throughout the region. In the Islamic Caliphate, Islam was the prevailing religion, focusing on the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad and the Quran.

In terms of being the truest heir to the Roman Empire, the Byzantine Empire stands out. It maintained a direct lineage from the Eastern Roman Empire, preserving Roman institutions and cultural practices. The Byzantines saw themselves as the continuation of Rome and held onto its legacy for centuries.