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List of Byzantine Emperors

Emperor of the Byzantine Empire
Coat of Arms of Byzantine Empire Coin showing the face of Constantine I First emperor Constantine ILast emperor Constantine XIEmperorship started 306Emperorship ended 1453

This is a list of the Emperors of the late Eastern Roman Empire, commonly known as the Byzantine Empire by modern historians. This list does not include numerous co-emperors who never attained sole or senior status as rulers.

This list begins with Constantine I the Great, the first Christian emperor reigning from Constantinople. Diocletian before him had ruled from Nicomedia and replaced the republican trappings of the office with a straightforward autocracy. All Byzantine Emperors regarded themselves as Roman Emperors.[1]

The Emperor Heraclius (610-641) replaced Latin with Greek as the language of the army and began the administrative restructuring of the Empire into themata. Although Greek had long been the dominant language in the Eastern Roman Empire this change represented a formal rejection of the Latin language and many aspects of traditional Roman culture. Indeed after 800 AD the Pope and later the Franks would reject the Roman Imperial authority of Constantinople partially on this basis.

The title of all Emperors listed preceding Heraclius was officially Augustus, although various other titles such as Dominus were used as well. For official purposes, their names were preceded by Imperator Caesar and followed by Augustus. Following Heraclius, the title commonly became the Greek Basileus (Gr. Βασιλεύς), which had formerly meant generally "king", "sovereign" but now was used in place of Imperator. Kings were now titled by the neologism Regas (Gr. Ρήγας, from the Lat. "Rex") or by another generic term Archon (Gr. Άρχων, "ruler"). Autokrator (Gr. Αυτοκράτωρ) was also frequently used, along with a plethora of more hyperbolic titles including Kosmokrator (Gr. Κοσμοκράτωρ) ("Master of the World") and "Chronokrator" (Gr. Χρονοκράτωρ) ("Master of Time"). In the later centuries of the Empire, the emperor could be often referred to by Western Christians as the "Emperor of the Greeks," though they still considered themselves "Roman" Emperors.

Contents

Constantinian dynasty (306-363)

Picture Name Status Birth Emperor from Emperor until Death Notes Constantine I"the Great"
(Gaius Flavius Valerius Aurelius Constantinus) son of the Augustus Constantius Chlorus27 Februaryc.280 25 July306
Proclaimed "Augustus" upon the death of Constantius Chlorus22 May337He declared himself "Augustus" in Eboracum, Britannia (Modern York), upon the death of Constantius Chlorus, and, after a period of prolonged civil war, became sole Emperor. He famously converted to Christianity, and began imperial favour of that religion. He founded Constantinople as a capital of the Empire. Divided the Empire between his three sons upon his death. Later canonised. Constantius II
(Flavius Iulius Constantius) second son of Constantine I 7 August31722 May337
Inherited Eastern third of Roman Empire upon his father's death 5 October361
died of illness on campaign By inheritance, he succeeded to the Eastern third; after his two brothers died, he became sole Emperor. He was responsible for the deaths of numerous family members in the wake of Constantine's death, and persecuted those remaining. His last cousin, Julian, rebelled against him in the last years of his life. Julian"the Apostate"
(Flavius Claudius Iulianus) grandson of Constantius Chlorus, cousin of Constantius II May 332 5 October361
Proclaimed by his army in Gaul, became legitimate Emperor upon the death of Constantius 28 June363
Mortally wounded in battle The son of Constantine I's half brother, Julius Constantius, he was early orphaned by the death of his mother of childbed fever, and the murder of his father by the sons of Constantine I. Raised by Constantius II to the rank of Caesar, he ruled and defended Gaul very ably. He eventually rebelled, being proclaimed Augustus by his army, and seized control of Italy. He succeeded to the entire empire after Constantius' fortuitous death of illness. He died on campaign against the Sassanids. He is more famous, however, for his rejection of Christianity, and his doomed attempts to rejuvenate Paganism.

Non-dynastic (363-364)

Picture Name Status Birth Emperor from Emperor until Death Notes Jovian
( Flavius Claudius Iovianus ) Guards' Captain amongst Julian's Eastern forces c.332 28 June363
Elected by the army upon Julian's death 17 February364
Died on journey back to Constantinople A non-entity, chosen by the army to succeed following Julian's intestate death. His only deeds worth mentioning were to secure the escape of the Roman army from Persia by signing a peace treaty; this treaty signed away Rome's furthest Eastern provinces to the Persians. He died before reaching his capital.

Valentinian-Theodosian dynasty (364-457)

Picture Name Status Birth Emperor from Emperor until Death Notes Valentinian I
(Flavius Valentinianus) Officer under Julian and Jovian 321 26 February364
Elected by the army upon Jovian's death 17 November375
Died of cerebral haemorrhage Shortly after his accession, he chose his brother Valens to rule alongside him. The pair then partitioned the Empire between themselves. Valentinian thereafter ruled in the West only. During his reign, the Empire was repeatedly ravaged by barbarians. His anger at the invasion of the Quadicaused his fatal haemorrhage. Valens
( Flavius Iulius Valens ) Minor soldier of the Roman army, brother of Valentinian I 328 28 March364
Appointed by his brother 9 August378
Killed at the Battle of AdrianopleCalled "The Last True Roman", he was chosen to rule the East by his brother, Valentinian I. His reign was ineffective, and at one point he came close to abdication and suicide following the proclamation of an imperial pretender, Procopius. He was killed in the disastrous Battle of Adrianople, in which most of his armies were destroyed by Gothic invaders. Gratian
( Flavius Gratianus ) Son of Valentinian I, nephew of Valens 18 April/23 May3599 August378
Inherited rule of the East upon the death of Valens 19 January379
Appointed Theodosius I as Emperor of the East 25 August383
Assassinated during the rebellion of Magnus MaximusHe inherited the rule of the East upon Valens' death. He appointed one of his generals, Theodosius, as Emperor in the East in the following year. He was also Emperor in the West (with Valentinian II) 375-383 Theodosius I
( Flavius Theodosius ) Aristocrat and military leader, brother-in-law of Gratian 11 January34719 January379
Appointed by Gratian 17 January395
old age He was appointed Emperor in the East by Gratian, who needed a loyal ally to deal with the effects of Adrianople. He restored the Eastern armies by taking many barbarian mercenaries into Roman service. After the deaths of Gratian and Valentinian II, he took control of the Western half of the Empire. He was the last Emperor to de facto rule the entire Empire. Made Christianity the official religion of the Empire. Arcadius
( Flavius Arcadius ) Son of Theodosius I 377/378 17 January395
Upon the death of Theodosius I 1 May408A weak Emperor, dominated by his wife Aelia Eudoxiaand ministers. Brother of the Western Emperor HonoriusTheodosius II
( Flavius Theodosius ) Son of Arcadius 10 April4011 May408
Upon the death of Arcadius 28 July450
Riding accident He was heavily influenced by his sister, Pulcheria, who declared herself "Augusta" in 414. During his reign, her Christian views led to persecution of non-Christians in the Empire. However, the period also saw the construction of Constantinople's near-impregnable Theodosian Walls, and the publication of the Codex Theodosianus. He died in 450, leaving his sister as his heir. Pulcheria
( Aelia Pulcheria ) Daughter of Arcadius, sister of Theodosius II 19 January39928 July450
Upon the death of Theodosius II July 453 After the death of her father, Arcadius, she became politically prominent. She was responsible for appointing the barbarian Asparas Eastern Roman "Master of Soldiers", a position he would use to his own ends. Strongly Christian, she encouraged her brother to rule according to Christian values. She became a nun after being forced from the court in 441, but returned after her brother's death. She then married Marcian, and the pair ruled together until 453. She was later canonised by the Eastern Orthodox Church Marcian
( Flavius Marcianus ) Soldier, politician, husband of Pulcheria 396 450
Upon his marriage to Pulcheria January 457
Gangrene contracted on a journey He was elevated to the imperial throne by his marriage to Pulcheria. He was supported by Aspar. Under his rule, the Eastern Empire recovered from the political and military vicissitudes of the past 3/4 of a century, and faced down Attila the Hun. The West, however, he left to fend for itself. He was canonised after his death by the Eastern Orthodox Church

Leonid dynasty (457-518)

Picture Name Status Birth Emperor from Emperor until Death Notes Leo I"the Thracian"
(Flavius Valerius Leo ) Soldier 401 7 February457
Chosen by Aspar, commander-in-chief of the army 18 January474
Died of dysentery He was chosen by Aspar, who attempted to rule through him; Leo resisted and broke Aspar's power. In order to do this, he was forced to ally with the Isaurians, whose leader Tarasicodissa married Leo's daughter Ariadneand took the Roman name "Zeno". He raised Theodoric the Greatin his court. He was the first Emperor to be crowned by the Patriarch of Constantinople. Leo II
( Flavius Leo ) Grandson of Leo I 467 18 January474
Succeeded his grandfather Leo I 17 November474
Died of an unknown disease, possibly poisoned He was the son of Ariadne (daughter of Leo I) by Zeno. He inherited the throne upon his grandfather's death. It was rumoured that his mother had poisoned him to allow Zeno to take the throne. Zeno
( Flavius Zeno )
(Born Tarasicodissa) Roman general of Isaurian origins; son-in-law of Leo I, father of Leo II c.425 Co-emperor: 9 February474
Appointed by his son Leo II
Sole Emperor: 17 November474
Succeeded upon the death of Leo II 9 January475
Deposed by Basiliscus, brother-in-law of Leo I 9 April491An Isaurian chieftain, he gave his support to Leo I to overthrow Aspar. In exchange, he was allowed to marry Leo I's daughter Ariadne, by whom he had a son, Leo II. After the latter's death, he took the throne. Unpopular due to his barbarian origins, he was deposed by his mother-in-law, Verina, and her brother Basiliscus. Basiliscus
( Flavius Basiliscus ) Army General; brother-in-law of Leo I 9 January475
Seized power from Zeno August 476
Deposed by Zeno 476/477 The brother of Leo I's wife, Verina. He was favoured by Leo I, who made him the leader of an expedition against Carthage. The expedition failed, however, Initially popular, Basiliscus alienated the Constantinopolitan population, and his own followers, partly through misfortunes of chance, partly through callous treatment of his allies and his support for the Monophysite Heresy. He was betrayed by his allies, and defeated when Zeno returned to the city with an army. He was then starved to death. Zeno, restored
( Flavius Zeno )
(Born Tarasicodissa) Roman general of Isaurian origins; son-in-law of Leo I, father of Leo II c.425 restored August 476
Having deposed Basiliscus 9 April491He rallied an army and restored himself by force. Shortly afterwards, he formally reunited the Roman Empire upon the deposition of the Western Emperor Romulus Augustulus, although in reality the West fell under barbarian control. He ruled laxly, but he left the East stronger than he had found it. Anastasius I
( Flavius Anastasius ) Palace official ("Silentiarius"); son-in-law of Leo I c.430 11 April491
Chosen by Ariadne, widow of Zeno 9 July518He was a reputable palace official chosen by Ariadne (daughter of Leo I, widow of Zeno) to succeed; the pair then married. He was at first popular due to his lowering of taxation; he lost popularity when he adopted a strong monophysite policy in his final years. His leadership in war led to an exhaustive conflict between the Romans and the Persians, resulting in little benefit; he also faced ravaging of the Balkans by Slavic and Bulgar invasions.

Justinian dynasty (518-602)

Picture Name Status Birth Emperor from Emperor until Death Notes Justin I
(Flavius Iustinus ) General, commander of the City Guards under Anastasius I c.450 July 518
Elected by army and people upon the death of Anastasius I 1 August527He was an illiterate Illyrian peasant, who rose to become commander of the city guards. Through this position and lavish bribery, he secured the throne upon the death of Anastasius I. His reign was marked mainly by conflict with the Ostrogoths and Persians. Justinian I
(Flavius Petrus Sabbatius Iustinianus) Nephew and heir of Justin I 482/483 1 August527
Inherited the throne on the death of Justin I 13/14 November 565 The son of Justin I's sister, Vigilantia, he was adopted by his uncle, then a rising officer of the army, and brought to Constantinople where he was given a good education. He married in 525 Theodora, a shrewd and capable courtesan who acted as the power behind the throne whilst she lived. Often referred to as the last "Roman" emperor Justinian reconquered large swathes of territory in Italy and the Adriatic coastline, North Africa, and Spain, destroying many of the conquered territories in the process. Justinian also ordered the construction of the Hagia Sophiapatriarchal basilica in 532. This "Renewal of the Empire", however, was ended by an outbreak of the so-called Plague of Justinianacross Europe, killing much of the Empire's population, and seriously weakening it. Against Justinian's credit of restoring Roman rule in parts of the west, and his work on creating the "Corpus Juris Civilis", must be set the dire legacy he left his heir, Justin II: a hugely reduced army, a crippled economy, and over-stretched resources. Justin II
(Flavius Iustinus Iunior) Nephew and heir of Justinian I c.520 14 November565
Inherited the throne on the death of Justinian I 5 October578The son of Justinian I's sister, Vigilantia, he inherited the throne upon his uncle's death. He proved a dismal successor to Justinian: in 568, Italy was overrun by the Lombards; his refusal to pay tribute to the Avars led to a number of unsuccessful campaigns against them; and he lost Syria to the Persians. The stresses of his duties proved too much, and, after making his friend and general Tiberius co-Emperor, he lapsed into insanity. Tiberius II Constantine
(Flavius Tiberius Constantinus) "Comes" of the Excubitors, friend and adoptive son of Justin II c.520 5 October578
Became full Emperor on the death of Justin II 14 August582
possibly poisoned by Maurice A friend of Justin II, he was adopted and made co-emperor in 574, upon the advice of the Empress Sophia. He thereafter ruled with the Empress until Justin's death in 578. During his reign, the Persians were defeated in Armenia, whilst the Roman territories in Spain and Africa were secured. However, he was unable to prevent Slavic invasions of the Balkans. He named his son-in-law, Maurice, heir when he became ill in 582; his death shortly afterwards was attributed by rumour to poison. Maurice
(Flavius Mauricius Tiberius) Commander-in-chief of Cappadocian origins; son-in-law of Tiberius II 539 14 August582
Succeeded upon the death of his father-in-law Tiberius II November 602
Forced to abdicate by Phocas 27 November602
Executed by Phocas One of Constantinople's outstanding generals, he successfully defeated the Persians in 581. He married Constantina, the daughter of Tiberius II in 582, and in the same year became Emperor upon Tiberius' death. He continued the Persian war until 591, when he secured peace by placing the exiled Sassanid heir Khosrau IIon the Persian throne. He also warred mostly successfuly with the Avars and Slavs, and instituted the system of the "Exarchates" in Italy and Africa, allowing greater competence in defending Roman territory there. A refusal to pay a ransom demanded by the Avars in exchange for several thousand captured Roman soldiers led to the rebellion of Phocas, who had Maurice executed. His reign saw the last flowering of Roman power, and a weakening of both the Empire and Persia.

Non-dynastic (602-610)

Picture Name Status Birth Emperor from Emperor until Death Notes Phocas
(Flavius Phocas ) sub-altern in the Balkan army, leader of rebellion; deposed Maurice  ? November 602
Seized power in a rebellion against Maurice 610
Executed by Heraclius A minor soldier in the Roman army, he led a rebellion against Maurice after the latter ordered the exhausted forces to winter on the unprotected side of the Danube, and then tried to send them on a winter campaign. In the ensuing rebellion, Maurice abdicated; Phocas had himself crowned Emperor, and then executed the ex-emperor and his children. He was initially popular due to his lowering of taxes and his reforms. However, under his rule, the traditional Roman borders in the east began to collapse, whilst the Persians supported rebellions on their border and advanced their control westwards. Eventually, his authority crumbled, and Heraclius proclaimed himself as Emperor and seized control, executing Phocas.

Heraclian dynasty (610-711)

Picture Name Status Birth Emperor from Emperor until Death Notes Herakleios
(Ηράκλειος, Hērakleios) Heraclius (Flavius Heraclius) son of Exarch Heraclius the Elder; deposed Phocas c.575 5 October610
Seized power in a rebellion against Phocas 11 February641He rebelled against Phocas and seized power. After a long war with the Sassanid Empire and the Avars, he emerged victorious, fatally weakening both opponents. He was unable to prevent the loss of Syria, Palestine and Egypt to the newly emergent Arab Caliphate towards the end of his reign. He is credited with organising the system of Thematato defend the Empire, and with making Greek rather than Latin the official language of the Empire. He left the Empire to be ruled jointly by his two sons Constantine III and Heraklonas Constantine III
(Ηράκλειος (νέος) Κωνσταντίνος, Herakleios Novos Kōnstantinos) Constantine III ( Heraclius Novus Constantinus ) eldest son of Herakleios 3 May61211 February641
Succeeded to throne with Heraklonas following death of Herakleios 24/26 May641
Tuberculosis, allegedly poisoned by Martina He was made co-Emperor with his father in 613, but did not fully accede until his father's death. He died shortly after his accession, his sole noteworthy act being bribing the army to safeguard the rights of his son, Constans II. The rumour that his stepmother, Martina, had poisoned him led to the downfall of herself and her son, Heraklonas Heraklonas
(Κωνσταντίνος Ηράκλειος, Kōnstantinos Herakleios) Heraclianus (Constantinus Heraclius) younger son of Herakleios 626 11 February641
Succeeded to throne with Constantine III following death of Herakleios September 641
Deposed by Senate c.641
Presumed to have died in exile He was made co-Emperor with his father in 638, but did not fully accede until his father's death. After his brother's death, he ruled briefly as co-emperor, then made his nephew, Constans II, co-emperor, to quell an army revolt. The people of Constantinople, however, mistrusted him, believing that he and his mother Martina had murdered Constantine III; in September, the Senate deposed him and his mother, subjected both to ritual mutilation (Heraklonas lost his nose, Martina lost her tongue), and exiled them to Rhodes. Constans II
(Κώνστας Β', Kōnstas II);
born Herakleios Constantine
(Ηράκλειος Κωνσταντίνος, Herakleios Kōnstantinos );
called "Constantine the Bearded" (Κωνσταντίνος Πωγωνάτος, Kōnstantinos Pogonatos) Constans II
(Constantus II);
born Heraclius Constantine
( Heraclius Constantinus );
called "Constantine the Bearded" son of Constantine III 7 November630641
Made co-Emperor by Hereklonas, sole emperor in that same year 15 September668
Assassinated, possibly on the orders of Mezezius His uncle, Heraklonas, made him co-emperor to quell a revolt; the revolt continued, and Heraklonas was deposed. Constans then ruled as sole emperor. In his reign, Egypt was lost completely by the Empire, whilst Carthage was also lost for a time. He stabilised the border in the Balkans. His religious attitudes led him to bring Pope Martin Ito trial in Constantinople for his criticism of Constans. After executing his brother, Theodosius, he became hated by the people of Constantinople, and left for Syracuse; he spent the rest of his life in Italy. Rumours that he intended to establish Syracuse as his capital led to his being assassinated in his bath. A noble of the court, Mezesius, then established a military regime in Sicily for several months. MezeziusUsurper Emperor Unknown 668 669 A member of the Gnunifamily. Declared Emperor in Sicilyand ruled there for seceral months. Killed in conflict with Constantine IV. Constantine IV
(Κωνσταντίνος, Kōnstantinos) Constantine
(Constantinos) son of Constans II 652 15 September668
succeeded following murder of Constans II September 685
Died of dysentery He became Emperor following the murder of his father; immediately, he was forced to suppress a revolt in Sicily, led by the imperial pretender Mezezius. In his reign, Constantinople was attacked by an Arab fleet between 672 and 678; Greek fire was used to drive them off. However, several coastal cities, including Smyrna and Cyzicus, were conquered by the Arabs, whilst the Bulgars took advantage of the situation to establish a state in Moesia, to which Constantine was forced to pay tribute. His reign also saw the formal condemnation of monothelitism by the Sixth Oecumenical Council. Justinian IIson of Constantine IV 669 Co-emperor in 681, sole emperor in 685. 695
Deposed by military revolt December 711 Augmented the sum paid by the UmayyadCaliphateas an annual tribute, regained control of part of Cyprus. The income from the provinces of Armeniaand Iberiawas divided among the two empires. Defeated Slavic tribes of Macedoniaand relocated them to Anatolia. Started war against the Umayyads which resulted in the loss of Armenia to them. Deposed shortly after. LeontiosUsurper Emperor Unknown 695 698
Deposed by military revolt 705 A strategosfrom Isauria. Used the army of the Helladic Theme to depose Justinian II. Lost Carthageto Abd al-Malikof the Umayyad Caliphate. Briefly resumed control of the city but the Battle of Carthagefirmly established Umayyad control over the Exarchate of Africa. The remnants of the defeated Byzantine expedition revolted against Leontius and deposed him. Executed by Justinian II in 705. Tiberios IIIUsurper Emperor Unknown 698 705
Deposed by a Bulgarian-supported revolt 705 An army officer of Germanicorigins. Led remnants of the defeated army expedition for Carthage to successful revolt. War with Abd Al-Malik continued with incoclusive victories and losses for either side. Deposed by Justinian II who had gained the military support of Tervel of Bulgaria. Executed shortly after deposition. Justinian IIson of Constantine IV 669 705 711
Deposed by military revolt December 711 Restored to the throne by winning the military support of Tervel of Bulgaria. Rewarded Tervel with a number of territories in the Balkans. Attempted to regain said territories by attacking Tervel in 708. The expedition failed and peace was restored. The Ummayyads managed to capture Ciliciaand penetrated into Cappadocia. Inflicted harsh punishments to the city of Chersonwhich had served as his exile place for several years. The troops of Cherson revolted against him. He led his own troops against the rebels, fell into their hands and was swiftly executed.

Non-dynastic (711-717)

Picture Name Status Birth Emperor from Emperor until Death Notes PhilippikosA general of Armenianorigins; deposed Justinian II Unknown December, 711 3 June713
Deposed by a military revolt Later in the 8th century A Monothelite. Led the troops of Cherson in successful revolt against Justinian II. Abolished the canons of the Third Council of Constantinople. Both Tervel of Bulgariaand Al-Walid Iof the Umayyad Caliphate managed to gain military victories over him. Deposed by a revolt of the troops of the Opsikian Theme, Thrace. He was deposed and blinded. Anastasios IIa burecraut, imperial secretary for Philippikos Unknown June, 713 November, 715
Deposed by a military revolt 718 Restored the canons of the Third Council of Constantinople. Attempted to impose discipline in the army and executed officers involved in previous revolts. The troops of the Opsikian Theme again revolted and deposed him. Retired for a while to a monastery in Thessaloniki. Led a Bulgarian-supported revolt against Leo III in 718. He was captured and executed. Theodosios IIIa financial officer, tax collector in the Opsikian Theme Unknown May, 715 25 March717
Deposed by a military revolt Later in the 8th century Obscure origins, possibly related to Tiberios III. Laid siege to Constantinople from May to November, 715, prior to gaining entry and deposing Anastasios II. He was facing a renewed threat from the Umayyad Caliphate. Concluded a treaty with Kormesiy of Bulgaria, attempting to secure an alliance with him. Deposed by a combined revolt of generals Leo of the Anatolic Theme and Artabasdus of the Armeniac Theme. Abdicated when the rebels captured his namesake son, father and son joined the clergy. A Theodosios who was bishop of Ephesusc. 729 - 754 was either the former emperor or his son.

Isaurian dynasty (717-802)

Picture Name Status Birth Emperor from Emperor until Death Notes Leo III the Isauriana general from Germanikeia, Commagenec. 685 25 March71718 June74118 June741Strategos of the Anatolic theme. Successfully deposed Theodosios III. Faced the Siege of Constantinople(717 - 718) by Maslama. The Byzantines were reinforced by Tervel of Bulgariaand his troops. Maslama and his forces retreated, their Caliph Umar ibn AbdulAzizdid not attempt another siege. Leo later also successfully withstood attacks by Hisham ibn Abd al-Malik. Elevated the serfsinto a classof freetenants. He was the first of the IconoclastEmperors. Constantine VSon of Leo III July, 718 Co-ruler in 720, senior ruler in 741 14 September77514 September775Second of the Iconoclast Emperors. Almost immediately challenged for the throne by his brother-in-law Artabasdos. Their civil war from 741 to 743, with Constantine as the victor. Branded the worship of relicsand prayers to the saintsas hereticalpractices. Reorganized the Byzantine army, introducing the tagmaas its core military unit of professional troops. Invaded the Umayyad Caliphate which was falling apart under Marwan II, later leading attacks against As-Saffah, the first AbbasidCaliph. Gained a number of Christian captives from his Arab campaigns, resettling them in the Balkans. Led aggressive campaigns against the First Bulgarian Empirein attempt to extend his borders. His reign marks a turn of Byzantine military activities from mostly defensive actions to offensive campaigns against its eastern and northern neighbors. ArtabasdosSon-in-law of Leo III, brother-in-law of Constantine V Unknown Rival emperor from June 741/2 2 November743Later in the 8th century Strategos of the Armeniac theme, helped Leo III rise to the throne. Married Anna, daughter of Leo III, and also given command of Opsikion theme. Challenged his brother-in-law Constantine V for the throne soon after the death of Leo. He led the Iconodulefaction of the civil war and held Constantinople for its duration. He was defeated, blinded and sent to a monastery. Unknown time of death, there is mention of his bones c. 772. Leo IV the KhazarSon of Constantine V 25 January750Co-ruler in 751, senior ruler in 775 8 September7808 September780Third of the Iconoclast Emperors. His mother Tzitzakwas a Khazarprincess. Faced uprisings by his younger half-brother Nikephoros and the others sons of Constantine V by Eudokia. In his conflict with Al-Mahdiof the Abbassids, the Byzantine army raided into Syria and the Abbassid one into Anatolia. He was preparing a campaign against Kardam of Bulgariaat the time of his death. Constantine VISon of Leo IV and Irene 771 Co-ruler in 776, sole emperor in 780 August, 797 c. 797, though sources are contradictory on the subject He was underage when rising to the throne, his mother becoming his Regent. In 782, betrothed to Rotrude, a daughter of Charlemagne. Engagement broken in 788. Signed the decrees of the Second Council of Nicaeawhich restored the veneration of icons. Decision considered to reflect the religious views of his mother but not his own. Came to actual power in 790 but managed to alienate both the Orthodox (Iconodule) and the Iconoclast faction by the end of his reign. His divorce from his first wife Maria of Amniaand re-marriage to his mistress Theodotecaused the so-called "Moechian controversy" (from the Greekmoichos, "adulterer"), seen as legalization of adultery by circles of the Church. Deposed by his mother and blinded. Accounts in primary sources differ on how long he survived his deposition, ranging from a mere ten days to a full decade. Irene of AthensWife of Leo IV, mother of Constantine VI c. 752 August, 797 31 October8029 August803A member of the Sarantapechos from Athens. Wife of Leo IV. Regent from 780 to 790, retained part of her influence. Responsible for the Second Council of Nicaea and its decisions. Deposed and succeeded her son in 797. A fervent Iconodule. Charlemagnecrowned Roman Emperorin oppossition to her in 800. Deposed by a patrician conspiracy in 802. Exiled to Lesbos, where she died the following year.

Nikephoros' dynasty (802-813)

Picture Name Status Birth Emperor from Emperor until Death Notes Nikephoros Ilogothetēs tou genikou(finance minister) Unknown 31 October80226 July81126 July811Deposed Irene through a conspiracy of patricians and palace eunuchs. Created new themes in the Balkans, resettled Anatolian populations in them. Signed the Pax Nicephoriwith Charlemagnebut there were still conflicts over possession of Venetia. Initially refused to pay tribute to Harun al-Rashidas Irene had agreed. Forced to increase the tribute after suffering military defeats. Led troops in a war against Krum of Bulgariabut was killed in the Battle of Pliska, along with most of the army following him. His skull was turned into a skull cupby Krum. StaurakiosSon of Nikephoros I Unknown Co-ruler in 803, senior ruler in 811 2 October81111 January812Married Theophano, a relative of Irene of Athens. He was present at the Battle of Pliska where a sword-wound near the neck left him paralyzed. He was transferred from the battlefield by members of the imperial guard. He reportedly intended to abdicate the throne in favor of his wife, instead forced to abdicate in favor of his brother-in-law Michael I. Retired to a monastery and died months into his retirement, never recovering from his wounds. Michael I RangabeSon-in-law of Nikephoros I, brother-in-law of Staurakios Unknown 2 October81111 July81311 January844Married Prokopia, a daughter of Nikephoros I. Kouropalates (master of the palace) prior to his elevation to the throne. A fervent iconodule, persecuted iconoclasts and was patron to Theodore the Studite. Recognized Charlemagne as basileus, though not a Roman one. In exchange established control over Venicewith no oppossition from the Franks, ending the territorial dispute for the time. Suffered further losses in war against Krum. Abdicated in favor of Leo V, spend the rest of his life in a monastery. His sons were castrated but one of them emerged from monastic life as Patriarch Ignatios of Constantinople.

Non-dynastic (813-820)

Picture Name Status Birth Emperor from Emperor until Death Notes Leo V the ArmenianStrategos of the Anatolic theme c. 775 11 July81325 December82025 December820Had contacted himself well in wars against the Abbassids, but fled from the Battle of Versinikiaagainst Krum of Bulgaria. Michael I abdicated in his favor. The war against Krum continued with the Bulgarians capturing both Adrianopleand Arkadioupolis (Lüleburgaz). In 814, Krum died and his successor Omurtag of Bulgariawas defeated by Leo V. The two states initiated a peace treaty which lasted for decades. Reinstated the Iconoclast faction to power, fourth of the Iconoclast Emperors. Assassinated in the Hagia Sophiaon Christmas, 820. He had entered the church unarmed and was unable to resist a group of dagger-wielding conspirators. His sons were castrated. Nicholas Adontztheorised that Leo V might be the same person as Leo, a great-grandfather of Basil I.

Phrygian dynasty (820-867)

Picture Name Status Birth Emperor from Emperor until Death Notes Michael IIthe Stammerer or the Amorian (Μιχαήλ Β' ο Τραυλός ή Ψελλός) Strategos, son-in-law of Constantine VI 77025 December820
2 October829Fifth of the Iconoclast Emperors. Married Euphrosyne, a daughter of Constantine VI. Theophilus(Θεόφιλος) son of Michael II 8132 October829
20 January842Sixth and last of the Iconoclast Emperors. Theodora(Θεοδώρα) wife of Theophilus c. 815842
855867Reestablished the veneration of the icons. Deposed and entered monastery; canonized by the Orthodoxchurch Michael IIIthe Drunkard (Μιχαήλ Γ' ο Μέθυσος) son of Theophilos 19 January840842
23 September867assassinated

Macedonian dynasty (867-1056)

Picture Name Status Birth Emperor from Emperor until Death Notes Basil I the Macedonian(Βασίλειος Α') married Michael III's widow c. 811867
2 August886died in hunting accident Leo VI the Wise(Λέων ΣΤ' ο Σοφός) likely either son of Basil I or Michael III 19 September866886
11 May912Alexander(Αλέξανδρος Γ' του Βυζαντίου) son of Basil I; regent for nephew 870912
913Constantine VII Porphyrogennetos(Κωνσταντίνος Ζ' ο Πορφυρογέννητος) son of Leo VI 9 September90515 May908
9 November959Romanos I Lekapenos(Ρωμανός Α' ο Λεκαπηνός) father-in-law of Constantine VII c. 87017 December920
16 December94415 June948deposed by his sons; entered monastery Romanos II Porphyrogennetos(Ρωμανός Β' ο Πορφυρογέννητος) son of Constantine VII 15 March938November 959
15 March963Nikephoros II Phokas(Νικηφόρος Β' Φωκάς) married Theophano, Romanos II's widow, regent for Basil II c. 91216 August963
969Strategos; assassinated John I Tzimiskes(Ιωάννης Α' Κουρκούας ο Τσιμισκής) brother-in-law of Romanus II c. 92511 December969
10 January976lover of Nicephorus's wife but banned from marriage; regent for Basil Basil II the Bulgar-Slayer(Βασίλειος Β' ο Βουλγαροκτόνος) son of Romanos II 95810 January976
15 December1025Constantine VIII(Κωνσταντίνος Η') son of Romanos II 96015 December1025
15 November1028coemperor with Basil II Zoe(Ζωή) daughter of Constantine VIII c. 97815 November1028
June 1050Romanos III Argyros(Ρωμανός Γ' ο Αργυρός) Zoe's first husband 96815 November1028
11 April1034eparch of Constantinople; murdered Michael IVthe Paphlagonian (Μιχαήλ Δ' ο Παφλαγών) Zoe's second husband 101011 April1034
10 December1041Michael Vthe Caulker (Μιχαήλ Ε' ο Καλαφάτης) Michael IV's nephew 101510 December1041
20 April104224 August1042deposed, blinded, and castrated Theodora(Θεοδώρα) daughter of Constantine VIII 98420 April1042
1042after 31 August1056deposed Constantine IXMonomachos (Κωνσταντίνος Θ' ο Μονομάχος) Zoe's third husband c. 100011 June1042
11 January1055Theodora(Θεοδώρα) daughter of Constantine VIII 98411 January1055
after 31 August1056restored

Non-dynastic (1056-1057)

Picture Name Status Birth Emperor from Emperor until Death Notes Michael VICourt burecraut, defence minister Unknown September, 1056 31 August1057c. 1059 A member of the Bringas family, probably related to Joseph Bringas who rose to influence during the reign of Romanos II. He was the designated heir of Theodora. He was supported by the palace bureaucracy but opposed by the military aristocracy. From June to August, 1057, Michael was involved in a civil war again Isaac I Komnenos. He was convinced by Michael I Cerulariusto abdicate in favor of his opponent and retire to a monastery. He was eventually allowed to return to his private residence, where he died peacefully.

Komnenid dynasty (1057-1059)

Picture Name Status Birth Emperor from Emperor until Death Notes Isaac I Komnenoscommander of the field army in Anatolia c. 1005 5 June1057as rival emperor, sole emperor since 31 August105722 November1059c. 1061 He was a member of the Komnenosfamily who had risen to prominence in the reign of Basil II. He contacted a civil war against Michael VI, supported by his fellow members of the military aristocracy. He managed to force his opponent to abdication by the end of the summer. He rewarded his noble partisans with appointments which granted them authority but kept them at a distance from Constantinople. Attempted to repair the depleted finances of the empire by revoking numerous pensions and grants conferred by his predecessors and appropriating revenues from the wealthy monasteries. His only campaign was a defensive expedition against Andrew I of Hungarywhich threatened the northern borders of the empire. The campaign was successful and led to a peace treaty with the Kingdom of Hungary. He abdicated while convinced he was suffering from a fatal disease. Actually recoved shortly after his abdication. Spend the remainder of his life as a monk and scholar in the Monastery of Stoudios.

Doukid dynasty (1059-1081)

Picture Name Status Birth Emperor from Emperor until Death Notes Constantine XDoukas (Κωνσταντίνος Ι' ο Δούκας) 100624 November1059
22 May1067selected by Michael PsellusMichael VIIDoukas Quarter-short (Μιχαήλ Ζ' Δούκας Παραπινάκης) son of Constantine X 105022 May1067
24 March10781090originally coemperor with two brothers and Romanus; deposed & entered monastery Romanos IVDiogenes (Ρωμανός Δ' Διογένης) married Eudokia Makrembolitissa, Constantine X's widow 10321067
10711072coemperor, deposed & mutilated to death Nikephoros IIIBotaneiates (Νικηφόρος Γ' Βοτανειάτης) Strategos claiming descent from the Fabii100131 March1078
10 December1081bigamously married Maria of Alania, Michael VII's wife; deposed & forced into monastery

Komnenid dynasty (1081-1185)

Picture Name Status Birth Emperor from Emperor until Death Notes Alexios I Komnenos(Αλέξιος Α' Κομνηνός) Nephew of Isaac I, military commander 10484 April1081
15 August1118married Constantine X's grandniece John II Komnenos(Ιωάννης Β' Κομνηνός o Καλός) son of Alexios I 13 September108711188 April1143died of a hunting accident Manuel I Komnenos(Μανουήλ Α' Κομνηνός ο Μέγας) son of John II 28 November11181143 24 September1180Alexios II Komnenos(Αλέξιος B' Κομνηνός) son of Manuel I 14 September11691180October 1183murdered with garrotte Andronikos I Komnenos(Ανδρόνικος Α' Κομνηνός) nephew of John II c. 111811832 September1185deposed, tortured, and executed

Angelid dynasty (1185-1204)

Picture Name Status Birth Emperor from Emperor until Death Notes Isaac II Angelos(Ισαάκιος Β' Άγγελος) great-grandson of Alexios I September 11561185
1195January 1205deposed and blinded Alexios III Angelos(Αλέξιος Γ' Άγγελος) brother of Isaac II 11531195
12031211deposed by the Fourth Crusadeand eventually forced into monastery Isaac II Angelos(Ισαάκιος Β' Άγγελος) great-grandson of Alexios I September 11561203
1204January 1205restored after Alexios III had fled as coemperor with Alexius IV, deposed by Alexios V Alexios IV Angelos(Αλέξιος Δ' Άγγελος) son of Isaac II 118212031204deposed and killed by Alexios V Nikolaos Kanabos25 January12045 February1205refused to accept the election, strangled by Alexius V Alexios V Doukas(Αλέξιος Ε' Δούκας) son-in-law of Alexios III 11405 February120412 April1204December 1205

Laskarid dynasty (Empire of Nicaea, 1204-1261)

Picture Name Status Birth Emperor from Emperor until Death Notes Constantine LaskarisDefender of Constantinople Unknown Claimant emperor in 1204 c. 1205 c. 1205 He was proclaimed emperor by troops still trying to defend Constantinople, following the flight of Alexios V.[2]Theodore I LaskarisBrother of Constantine Laskaris, son-in-law of Alexios III c. 1174 proclaimed 1205, crowned 1208 1221 1221 He married Anna Angelina, a daughter of Alexios III. Founder of the Empire of Nicaea. Allied with Kaloyan of Bulgariaagainst Henry of Flandersof the Latin Empire.Successfully resisted an invasion by Kaykhusraw I, Sultan of Rumin 1211. Established Nicaean control over Paphlagonia. In 1220, Married Marie de Courtenay, a daughter of Peter II of Courtenayand Yolanda of Flandersof the Latin Empire, in an attempt at peace between the two rival empires. By the end of his reign Nicaea approximately consisted of the old Roman provinces of Asiaand Bithynia. John III Doukas Vatatzesson-in-law of Theodore I c. 1192 December, 1221 3 November12543 November1254He married Irene Lascarina, eldest daughter of Theodore I. He was designated heir to his father-in-law in 1212. He faced oppossition from the surviving brothers of Theodore I from 1221 to 1224. His rivals were allied with the Latin Empire. Gained territorial concessions by the Latin Empire in 1225. He seized Adrianopleat about this time but lost it to Theodore Komnenos, Despot of Epirusin 1227. Allied with Ivan Asen II of Bulgariain 1230. Following the death of his ally in 1241, John III annexed much of Bulgarian Thrace. He annexed Thessalonicainto his empire in 1246 and concetrated his later efforts against Epirus. He expanded Nicaean control over areas of the Aegean Sea, notably annexing Rhodes. His internal policies are credited with developing the economy of his realm to relative prosperity. Theodore II Laskarisson of John III, grandson of Theodore I 1221/1222 proclaimed 4 November1254, crowned 1255 18 August125818 August1258He was the only son of John III and Irene Lascarina. Shortly after his succession, Nicaea was invaded by Michael Asen I of Bulgariawho had just reached adulthood and was attempting to recover lost territories. Theodore II countered the invasion and concluded peace with Michael by 1256. He proceeded in the annexation of Durazzoand Servia, outflanking Epirus. In his internal affairs Theodore entrusted state affairs to bureaucrats from the middle classes, losing support from the great aristocratic families. He suffered from epilepsyand died during a seizure. John IV Laskarisson of Theodore II 25 December125018 August125825 December1261c. 1305 He was underage during his reign. His initial regents were George Mouzalon and Arsenius Autoreianus, Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople. However Michael VIII Palaiologos, a leading aristocrat, arranged the assassination of Mouzalon while Arsenius retreated to a monastery. Michael assumed control of the empire first as regent, then as co-emperor. When Nicaean troops captured Constantinople, Michael moved his court to the new capital and left his co-ruler behind in the city of Nicaea. John IV was blinded and deposed on the day of his eleventh birthday. He spend the rest of his life as a monk.

Palaiologan Dynasty (restored to Constantinople, 1259-1453)

Picture Name Status Birth Emperor from Emperor until Death Notes Michael VIII PalaiologosGreat-grandson of Alexios III, grandnephew of John III by marriage 1223 1 January1259as co-emperor, senior emperor since 25 December126111 December128211 December1282He married Theodora Doukaina Vatatzina, a grandniece of John III. In 1256, Michael was accused of consprining with representatives of Kaykaus II, Sultan of Rûm. He went into exile or self-exile to the court of Kaykaus in Iconium. He was recalled in 1258 and appointed Megas Kontostaulos, chief of the Frankishmercenaries. He used his position to assassinate George Mouzalon, Regent for John IV, and claim the regency for himself. He served two years as co-emperor prior to Alexios Strategopouloscapturing Constanntinople in his name. Michael transferred his capital to the captured city and shortly after deposed his co-emperor. In 1259, Michael defeated an alliance comprised of William II Villehardouin, Prince of Achaea, and Michael II Komnenos Doukasof Epirusat the Battle of Pelagonia. In subsequent peace treaties, Michael VIII gained control of Mystras, Monemvasiaand Maina in the Morea. Attempted to unify the Orthodoxand CatholicChurches at the Second Council of Lyonsin 1274. Secretly incited the rebellion known as the Sicilian Vespersagainst his enemy Charles I of Sicily, resulting in the split of the Kingdom of Sicily. Michael VIII was forced to drain the treasury to pay the enormous bribe of 60,000 gold pieces to Peter III of Aragonin order for the other ruler to invade Sicily. Died excommunicated from both Churches. Andronikos II PalaiologosSon of Michael VIII 25 March1259nominal co-emperor in September, 1261, crowned in 1272. Senior emperor on 11 December128224 May132813 February1332Son of Michael VIII and Theodora Doukaina Vatatzina. Repudiated his father's unpopular Church union with the Papacy (which he had been forced to support while his father was still alive), but was unable to resolve the related schism within the Orthodox clergy until 1310. Plagued by economic difficulties, the state treasury accumulated more than seven times less revenue (in nominal coins) than it had done previously. His economic measures included the dismantling of the Byzantine navy, never to be restored to its former strenghth of numbers. The empire grew increasingly depended on the rival republics of Veniceand Genoafor naval support. The empire suffered from Turkish advances in Asia Minor throughout the reign, losing Prusaand much of Bithynia by 1326 to the rising Ottoman Dynasty. His second wife Eirene of Montferrateffectively established her own court in Thessalonicafrom 1303 to 1317. Theodore Svetoslav of Bulgariaconquered much of northeastern Thrace in c. 1305-1307. Andronikos II was involved in a civil war against his grandson Andronikos III from 1320 to 1328. He lost the conflict and spend the last years of his life as a monk. Michael IX PalaiologosSon of Andronikos II 17 April1277co-emperor in 1281, crowned in 1294/1295. 12 October132012 October1320Son of Andronikos II and his first wife Anna of Hungary. From 1300 to 1307, Michael led failed campaigns against the Turks, the Catalan Companyof mercenaries (who had rebelled against their former employers) and Theodore Svetoslav of Bulgaria. He took over the court of Thessalonica in 1317. His health was seriously affected by the news that Andronikos III (his eldest son) had killed Manuel Palaiologos (his second son) over a conflict about a mistress. He died soon after the news reached him. Andronikos III PalaiologosSon of Michael IX 25 March1297co-emperor in 1316, rival emperor since July, 1321. Senior emperor on 24 May1328. 15 June134115 June1341He set himself as rival emperor to his grandfather since 1321, reigning from Adrianople. He won the civil war between them and settled himself in Constantinople. Effective administrative authority during the reign of Andronikos III was wielded by his megas domestikos John Kantakouzenos, while the emperor enjoyed himself hunting or waging war. Andronikos managed the annexation of Phocaeaand the islands of Lesbosand Chiosto the empire. However, Orhan Iof the Ottoman Dynasty defeated Andronikos III at Pelekanosin 1329, took Nicaeain 1331and Nicomediain 1337. After that, only Philadelpheiaand a handful of ports remained under Byzantine control in Asia Minor. Stefan Uroš IV Dušan of Serbiaexpanded into Byzantine territory in Macedonia, taking Ohrid, Prilep, Kastoria, Strumica, and Vodenin about 1334. On the other hand, Andronikos secured the extension of Byzantine control over Thessalyin 1333and Epirusin 1337, by taking advantage of succession crises in these principalities. John V PalaiologosSon of Andronikos III 18 June1332Emperor in 15 June13418 February134716 February1391Son of Andronikos III and his second wife Anna of Savoy. Underage during his first reign, placed under the regency of Anna. Anna did not trust John Kantakouzenos who had been entrusted with the administration. When Stefan Uroš IV Dušan of Serbia launched an invasion in Northern Thrace, Kantakouzenos left Constantinople to try to restore order to the area. In his absence, Patriarch John XIV of Constantinopleand courtier Alexios Apokavkos convinced Anna that the senior advisor was her enemy. Anna declared Kantakouzenos an enemy of the state and offered his title of prefect of Constantinople to Apokavkos. Kantakouzenos answered by declaring himself rival emperor, initiating a civil war which would last until 1347. Ivan Alexander of Bulgariasoon allied with the faction under John V and Anna while Stefan Uroš IV Dušan of Serbiasided with John VI. Both rulers were actually taking advantage of the civil war for their own political and territorial gains. In time John VI would ally himself with Orhan Iof the nascent Ottoman Sultanate. Anna was attempted to gain support from Western Europeand in Summer, 1343 an emissary proclaimed her loyalty to Pope Clement VIin Avignon. In August, 1343, Anna pawned the Byzantine crown jewels to the Republic of Venicefor 30,000 ducatsas part of an attempt to secure more finances for the war. However, she lost the war, her son demoted to a co-emperor of Kantakouzenos. John VI KantakouzenosA maternal relative of the Palaiologoic. 1292 rival emperor on 26 October1341, senior emperor on 8 February1347. 4 December135415 June1383He was a descendant of the Palaiologoi through his mother and the most trusted advisor of Andronikos III. He was in conflict with regent Anna of Savoy. He proclaimed himself rival emperor, ruling from Didymoteicho. He won the civil war, becoming senior emperor with John V as his co-emperor. He married his daughter Helena Kantakouzeneto John V. His hazardous alliance with Orhan I allowed the Ottoman Turks to establish their first permanent settlement in Europe, at Gallipoliin Thrace. He attempted to re-establish the Byzantine navy but two fleets met defeat against the Republic of Genoain 1349 and 1351. Conflict with John V restarted in 1352, with Kantakouzenos loosing the second phase of the war. He spend the rest of his life as a monk and scholar. Matthew KantakouzenosSon of John V, brother-in-law of John V c. 1325 co-emperor on 15 April1353, rival emperor since 4 December1354. December, 1357 between 1383 and 1391 He married Irene Palaiologina, a granddaughter of Abdronikos II and Eirene of Montferrat. He was proclaimed co-emperor with his father as hostilities with John V had started again. Survived the fall of his father, keeping his title and part of Thrace as his own dominion. He and Irene were captured by Serbian forces in February, 1356. They remained in captivity until delivered to John V in December, 1357. Matthew was forced to abdicate. He moved to the Despotate of Morea, ruled at the time by his brother Manuel Kantakouzenos. He resurfaces as Despot of Morea from 1380 and 1383, before abdicating in favor of his son Demetrios I KantakouzenosJohn V PalaiologosSon of Andronikos III, son-in-law of John VI 18 June1332co-emperor in 1347, rival emperor in 1352. Senior Emperor on 4 December135412 August137616 February1391Restored to the position of senior emperor through a civil war with John V and Matthew Kantakouzenos. In 1371he recognized the suzerainty of the Ottoman sultan Murad I. He was deposed by his son Andronikos IV Palaiologos. Andronikos IV PalaiologosSon of John V, grandson of John VI 2 April1348co-emperor c. 1352, Senior Emperor on 12 August13761 July137928 June1385Son of John V and Helena Kantakouzene. In 1373, Andronikos IV allied with Savci Bey in a combined revolt against their respective fathers John V and Murad I. Both rebellions failed. Murad I blinded his son and demanded that John V have Andronikos IV blinded as well, but John V blinded only one of his son's eyes. The Republic of Genoa later helped Andronikos escape prison and assume control of Constantinople in a coup d'état. However he was opposed throughout his brief reign by the Republic of Veniceand his old eneemy Murad I. He was effectively deposed in 1379, allowed to keep the title of co-emperor and given the city of Selymbria (Silivri) as his personal domain. John V PalaiologosSon of Andronikos III, son-in-law of John VI 18 June1332Senior Emperor on 1 July137914 April139016 February1391Restored to the position of senior emperor through the intervention of the Republic of Venice and the Ottoman Empire. Deposed by his grandson John VII Palaiologos. John VII PalaiologosSon of Andronikos IV 1370 Co-emperor from 1376 to 1379, senior emperor on 14 April1390. 17 September139022 September1408Co-emperor with his father in Constantinople from 1376 to 1379, possibly co-emperor in Selymbria from 1379 to 1385. Probably emperor in Selymbria from 1385 to 1390. Deposed his grandfather John V in 1390 but only held the throne for five months. He was restored to his domain of Selymbria through the intervention of Bayezid I. Maintained good relations with his uncle Manuel II, entrusted with the regency of Constantinople from 1399 to 1403. He then established his own court in Thessalonica from 1403 to 1408. John V PalaiologosSon of Andronikos III, son-in-law of John VI 18 June1332Senior Emperor on 17 September139016 February139116 February1391Restored to the position of senior emperor through the intervention of his son Manuel II and the Republic of Venice and the Ottoman Empire. Died months later. Manuel II PalaiologosSon of John V, grandson of John VI, brother of Andronikos IV 27 June1350Co-emperor in 1373, Senior Emperor on 16 February139121 July142521 July1425Second son of John V and Helena Kantakouzene. Proclaimed co-emperor after the failed revolt of his brother in 1373. He was supplanted by Andronikos IV in 1376-1379 and John VII in 1390. Instrumental in deposing the latter. Succeeded his father. His reign saw a siege of Constantinople by Bayezid Ifrom 1394 to 1402. The siege was only broken when Bayezid had to leave to face an invasion of his own realm by Timur, founder of the Timurid dynasty. Manuel spend 1399-1303 traveling through Europe, trying to secure assistance against the Ottoman Empire. The defeat of Bayezid in the Battle of Ankaraled to the Ottoman Interregnum, when several of his sons claimed the trone for themselves. Manuel II Palaiologos used this period of respite to bolster the defences of the Despotate of Morea, where the Byzantine Empire was actually expanding at the expense of the remnants of the Latin Empire. He maintained friendly relations with Mehmed I, victor of the Ottoman civil war. But in 1421, Manuel supported Mustafa Çelebi against Murad II. His candidate for the Ottoman throne lost and Murad launched a new assault against Constantinople. By 1424, the Byzantines were again paying tribute to the Ottoman court. Andronikos V PalaiologosSon of John VII c. 1400 co-emperor c. 1403 c. 1407 c. 1407 Co-emperor with his father at the court of Thessalonica. Predeceased his father. John VIII PalaiologosSon of Manuel II 18 December1392Co-emperor c. 1416, sole emperor on 21 July142531 October144831 October1448Mostly known for the Council of Florencewhich established a short-lived reconciliation and union of the Orthodox and Catholic Churches. Constantine XISon of Manuel II, brother of John VIII 8 February14056 January144929 May145329 May1453Ruler of the Despotate of Moreafrom 1443 to 1449. Succeeded his childless older brother in the throne of Constantinople. He faced conflict with Mehmed II, resulting in the Fall of Constantinopleto the latter. Considered to have been killed in battle, corpse not identified.

Palaiologan Dynasty (claimants in exile)

Picture Name Status Birth Emperor from Emperor until Death Notes Demetrios PalaiologosSon of Manuel II, brother of John VIII and Constantine XI c. 1407 1453 1460 1470 He was a co-ruler of the Despotate of Moreasince 1451. Became one of two claimants to the imperial succession with his younger brother and co-ruler Thomas. They managed to crush a revolt led by their cousin Manuel Kantakouzenos. However Demetrios and Thomas soon entered a civil war against each other. The war lasted until 1460, when Demetrios opted to surrender Mystrasto Mehmed II. Demetrios spend the rest of his life in honorary captivity, his daughter Helena Palaiologina married Mehmed II. Thomas PalaiologosSon of Manuel II, brother of John VIII and Constantine XI c. 1409 1453 12 May146512 May1465He was a co-ruler of the Despotate of Moreawith various of his brothers since 1428. Became one of two claimants to the imperial succession with his older brother and co-ruler Demetrios. Survived the fall of the Despotate by fleeing to the Italian Peninsula. He spend the rest of his life in Rome, recognized as rightful Emperor of the East by the Popes and Christian Europe. Andreas PalaiologosSon of Thomas c. 1453 12 May14651502 1502 created Despotby Pope Pius II, self-styled Imperator Constantinopolitanus sold his titles to King Ferdinand II of Aragonand Queen Isabella of Castile.[3]See List of titles and honours of the Spanish Crown.

See also

References

  1. ^ Hooker, Richard. "The Byzantine Empire." Middle Ages. World Cultures. 4 June 2007 <http://www.wsu.edu/~dee/MA/BYZ.HTM>.
  2. ^ His profile in Peerage.com
  3. ^ Norwich, John Julius, Byzantium, The Decline and Fall, p.446
Roman Emperorsby Epoch see also: List of Roman Emperors· Concise list of Roman Emperors· Roman EmpirePrincipateCrisis of the 3rd centuryDominateDivisionSuccessors
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Categories: Roman emperors | Byzantine emperors | Lists of monarchs | Ancient Roman titles

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