The History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire, by Edward Gibbon

Chapter LXVI: Union Of The Greek And Latin Churches

Applications Of The Eastern Emperors To The Popes.—Visits To The West, Of John The First, Manuel, And John The Second, Palæologus.—Union Of The Greek And Latin Churches, Promoted By The Council Of Basil, And Concluded At Ferrara And Florence.—State Of Literature At Constantinople.—Its Revival In Italy By The Greek Fugitives.—Curiosity And Emulation Of The Latins.