In 919, in a strategic and bold move, Romanos Lekapenos, the admiral of the Byzantine fleet, executed a successful coup to seize the Boukoleon Palace in Constantinople. This palace was not only a residence but also a symbol of imperial power. Romanos seized the opportunity presented by the minority of the reigning emperor Constantine VII, who was still a young boy, thereby positioning himself as the new regent of the Byzantine Empire.

Romanos was a member of a prominent Byzantine family and had established himself as a powerful military leader. His regency commenced amidst a time of political instability and fragmentation within the empire. By asserting control over the palace, Lekapenos could effectively govern and influence court policies while maneuvering within a landscape filled with potential rivals. His authority allowed him to formulate and implement policies that aimed to stabilize the empire and strengthen its defenses.

The unprecedented move of a military figure taking control over the imperial palace was a clear signal of the shifting dynamics within Byzantine leadership. It marked the onset of a new era characterized by military involvement in politics, as Romanos Lekapenos began to surround himself with loyal supporters and advisors. His regency lasted several years, during which he managed to consolidate power, offering a blend of military prowess and political acumen that helped stabilize the empire during a formative period of its history.