Assassination of Nikephoros II Phokas

December 11th, 969

December 11th, 969

Assassination of Nikephoros II Phokas
How Long Ago?

1055 years, 3 months, 4 days ago

Location

Constantinople, Byzantine Empire

Category

Politics & Government

People
  • Nikephoros II Phokas
  • Theophano
  • John I Tzimiskes
Links & References
Tags

Assassination of Nikephoros II Phokas

Nikephoros II Phokas was assassinated by his wife Theophano and her lover, John I Tzimiskes. The conspiracy unfolded in the palace of Constantinople, where the plotting couple sought to end the emperor's rule, allowing for a shift in power dynamics within the Byzantine Empire. This act was driven by personal motives, including political ambition and a desire for vengeance against Nikephoros II, who was known for his militaristic and autocratic leadership style.

Nikephoros II was a military strongman.

Theophano conspired with John I Tzimiskes.

Assassination took place in the palace.

Tzimiskes became emperor after the coup.

What Happened?

The assassination of Byzantine Emperor Nikephoros II Phokas marked a significant turning point in the history of the Byzantine Empire. Nikephoros II, who ruled from 963 until his assassination in 969, was a strong military leader known for his campaigns against Byzantium's enemies, including the Arabs and the Slavs. His reign, however, was also characterized by internal tensions, particularly with the aristocracy and nobility who often viewed his authoritarian governance unfavorably.

The emperor was married to Theophano, a woman of notable beauty and ambition. However, their marriage was fraught with difficulties, and Theophano was reportedly unhappy with Nikephoros’s military focus and harsh policies. She found herself involved with John I Tzimiskes, a prominent general and nobleman who had ambitions of his own in the Byzantine court. The conspiratorial couple plotted to eliminate Nikephoros II to pave the way for John’s ascension to the throne.

On December 11, 969, the coup was executed within the royal residence in Constantinople. Tzimiskes and some accomplices broke into the emperor's chamber, where they murdered him, effectively ending his reign. This assassination quickly led to the rise of John I Tzimiskes, who was proclaimed emperor shortly afterward, beginning a new regime that brought a slight shift in governance style. John's rule would see both continuity and change as he aimed to stabilize the empire while addressing the underlying issues that had plagued Nikephoros's reign.

Why Does it Matter?

The assassination of Nikephoros II Phokas is interesting because it highlights the internal strife within the Byzantine Empire and reflects broader power struggles in autocratic governments. It showcases how personal ambition and political maneuvering can influence the course of history, particularly within the turbulent context of Byzantine politics. This event not only changed leadership but also set the tone for subsequent imperial dynamics and conflicts.

Discover More Historic Events from December 11th

Health & Medicine

FDA Grants Emergency Use Authorization for Vaccine

December 11th, 2020 4 years ago

The Food and Drug Administration issued an Emergency Use Authorization for the Pfizer–BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine, marking a significant milestone in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. This decision allows the distribution of the first COVID-19 vaccine in the United States, facilitating the vaccine's availability to high-risk populations. Pfizer and BioNTech developed the vaccine to address the urgent public health crisis caused by the pandemic. The authorization was based on clinical trial data showing the vaccine's efficacy and safety, setting the stage for widespread immunization efforts.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Bougainville Votes for Independence

December 11th, 2019 5 years ago

The results of the Bougainville independence referendum reveal an overwhelming majority in favor of independence, with over 98% of voters supporting secession from Papua New Guinea. The referendum marks a significant step in the long-standing aspiration of the Bougainvillean people for self-determination, stemming from years of civil conflict and political negotiations. The process was facilitated by a peace agreement established to end hostilities and create a pathway for self-governance.

Continue Reading
Crime & Law

Pipe Bomb Detonates in New York Subway

December 11th, 2017 7 years ago

A pipe bomb partially detonated in the New York City Subway at the Times Square–42nd Street/Port Authority Bus Terminal, injuring four individuals, including the bomber. The explosive device was detonated during rush hour in a heavily trafficked area, raising alarm across the city and prompting a swift response from emergency services. The perpetrator, identified as Akayed Ullah, aimed to instill fear and disrupt normalcy in one of the busiest transport hubs in the world.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

Bombings in Aqrab Kill Over 125 People

December 11th, 2012 12 years ago

In a devastating attack on the Alawite village of Aqrab, Syria, bombings led to the deaths of at least 125 individuals and left nearly 200 injured. The violence occurred amid the ongoing Syrian Civil War, where sectarian tensions were high. Aqrab, located in the central province of Homs, became a focal point for clashes between government forces and rebel groups. The bombings sparked outrage and fear, highlighting the increasing brutality of the conflict in the region.

Continue Reading
Entertainment

Rovio Releases Angry Birds on iOS Internationally

December 11th, 2009 15 years ago

Rovio Entertainment launched the mobile game Angry Birds internationally on iOS, captivating audiences with its engaging gameplay and colorful graphics. Players were tasked with taking down enemy pigs using a variety of birds with unique abilities. The game's combination of physics-based challenges and humor quickly gained popularity, making it a must-download for mobile gamers around the world.

Continue Reading
Crime & Law

Bernie Madoff Arrested for Ponzi Scheme

December 11th, 2008 16 years ago

Bernie Madoff was arrested in New York for operating the largest Ponzi scheme in history, defrauding investors of approximately $50 billion. His arrest followed a confession to his sons, who reported him to authorities. Madoff founded a brokerage firm in the 1960s and was a former chairman of NASDAQ. The case shocked the financial world and raised questions about regulatory oversight.

Continue Reading