Historical Events tagged with "politics"

Turns out history loves a label—battles, breakthroughs, and the occasional disaster, all neatly tagged for your browsing pleasure. Because sometimes you just need every weird invention in one place.

Politics & Government

Succession Crisis in Byzantine Empire Following Death

November 10th, 474 1550 years ago

Emperor Leo II passed away after a brief ten-month reign, leading to a significant succession in the Byzantine Empire. Following his death, his father, Zeno, stepped in as the sole ruler. This transition marked a turning point in the empire's leadership, reflecting ongoing political struggles and family dynamics within the imperial lineage.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Julius Nepos Proclaims Himself Emperor

June 24th, 474 1550 years ago

On June 24, Julius Nepos forced Roman usurper Glycerius to abdicate the throne, effectively ending Glycerius's brief reign as Emperor of the Western Roman Empire. Julius Nepos, having been recognized by the Eastern Roman Empire as the rightful emperor, utilized this support to regain power in the West. The abdication marked a pivotal moment in the continued decline of imperial authority in the West and weakened the position of the usurpers who had been vying for control.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Zeno Becomes Co-Emperor of the Eastern Roman Empire

February 9th, 474 1551 years ago

Zeno was crowned co-emperor alongside his predecessor, Leo I, in a significant political move aimed at stabilizing the Eastern Roman Empire's rule. This transition took place in Constantinople, where political maneuvering was paramount to the ongoing power struggles of the time. Zeno, previously known as Tarasicodissa, would ultimately shape the future of the empire through alliances and military reforms. His rise marked a pivotal moment in the leadership dynamics of Constantinople, and it was seen as a strategic decision during a period of both internal and external threats faced by the empire.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Young Leo II Becomes Byzantine Emperor

January 18th, 474 1551 years ago

Leo II was declared emperor at just seven years old, succeeding his grandfather, Leo I. His reign was remarkably brief, lasting only ten months before his premature death. While young, Leo II's ascension reflects the commonly practiced tradition of hereditary rule within the Byzantine Empire, often placing young heirs on the throne in the absence of capable adult rulers. This transition occurred during a period of political instability and established the face of leadership amidst challenges within the empire.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Leo I Proclaims Leo II Caesar in Byzantium

October 25th, 473 1551 years ago

Emperor Leo I publicly proclaimed his grandson, Leo II, as Caesar of the Eastern Roman Empire in a significant ceremony. This event marked the formal elevation of the young Leo II, who was the son of Zeno, one of Leo I's heirs. The ceremony took place in Constantinople, where the imperial court gathered to witness the announcement. The acclamation was a vital step in securing the legitimacy of Leo II’s rule and emphasized the continuity of the imperial lineage.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Gundobad Nominates Glycerius as Emperor

March 3rd, 473 1552 years ago

Gundobad, a nephew of the powerful general Ricimer, nominated Glycerius as the new emperor of the Western Roman Empire. This political maneuvering occurred amidst the declining stability of the empire, as factions vied for control. Glycerius was selected largely for his connections and as a figure acceptable to Gundobad and other factions. The choice reflected the intricate relationships and power struggles among the Roman elite during this chaotic period.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Libius Severus Becomes Emperor of the West

November 19th, 461 1563 years ago

Libius Severus was proclaimed the emperor of the Western Roman Empire, with Ricimer, the powerful magister militum, holding actual authority. This declaration marked a critical moment within the increasingly fragmented Western Roman political structure, reflecting rising military influence over imperial authority. Severus, a figure with limited political power, was largely seen as a puppet ruler, manipulated by Ricimer's ambitions. The event took place amid a backdrop of military unrest and challenges from barbarian groups, illustrating the growing volatility of the Western Roman Empire in this period.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Deposition and Execution of Emperor Majorian

August 7th, 461 1563 years ago

Majorian, the Roman Emperor, was arrested and executed by Ricimer, the magister militum, near the river Iria in north-west Italy. This drastic action followed Majorian's failure to effectively address the pressing challenges of the Western Roman Empire, as well as his deteriorating relationship with Ricimer, who sought to consolidate power. The beheading marked a significant power shift within the imperial structure as it underscored the tensions between military leaders and the imperial office.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Majorian Arrested by Ricimer near Tortona

August 2nd, 461 1563 years ago

In a significant power shift, Majorian, the Roman emperor, was arrested by the Suebian general Ricimer near Tortona. This occurred in northern Italy as Ricimer aimed to install a puppet ruler under his control. Majorian had previously attempted to restore the Western Roman Empire's strength but faced increasing opposition from military leaders and political factions. The arrest marked a turning point in the power dynamics of the empire.

Continue Reading