What Happened This Year 963

Historical Events from This Year 963

Politics & Government

Nikephoros II Phokas Proclaimed Emperor

July 2nd, 963 1061 years ago

Nikephoros II Phokas was proclaimed Emperor of the Romans by the Byzantine army in the plains outside Cappadocian Caesarea. This significant moment arose following his military successes in the East, particularly against the Arabs, which bolstered his reputation among the troops. The proclamation marked a pivotal point in Byzantine politics, highlighting the military's substantial influence in determining leadership.

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Politics & Government

Nikephoros II Phokas crowned Byzantine emperor

August 16th, 963 1061 years ago

Nikephoros II Phokas was crowned as the emperor of the Byzantine Empire in Constantinople. His rise to power was supported by the military, following a successful career as a general. This ceremony took place in the Hagia Sophia, a grand cathedral that symbolized imperial authority. The coronation marked a significant transition in leadership, promising a renewed military campaign against the enemies of the empire, particularly the Muslim forces threatening Byzantium's eastern borders.

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Politics & Government

Emperor Otto I Deposes Pope John XII

November 6th, 963 1061 years ago

In a dramatic ecclesiastical showdown, Emperor Otto I convened a council at St. Peter's Basilica in Rome to address growing tensions with Pope John XII. The Pope faced serious accusations, including armed rebellion against the Emperor's authority. This council marked a critical moment in the struggle for power between the Church and the Empire, culminating in John XII's deposition.

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Religion & Philosophy

Lay Papal Protonotary Becomes Pope Leo VIII

December 4th, 963 1061 years ago

In 963, the lay papal protonotary, Leo VIII, was elected as the Pope of the Catholic Church. Following his election, he underwent the necessary ordination to assume his role as the Bishop of Rome. On December 6, he was officially consecrated in a ceremony symbolizing his new authority. His papacy was significant in a time when the church faced political turmoil and external pressures from various factions vying for influence over the papacy, illustrating the intricate balance of power within the church and its interactions with the broader political landscape.

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Born in 963

People Who Died in 963

Romanos II

Byzantine Emperor during the 10th century
Died
March 15th, 963 1062 years ago — None years old

Romanos II served as Byzantine Emperor from 959 until death in 963. His reign was marked by military campaigns against the Saracens and expansion of Byzantine influence in Sicily. Romanos II was the son of Emperor Constantine VII and empress Helena. Notably, he married Byzantine empress Theophano. His reign experienced significant cultural developments, including advances in literature and the arts. Romanos was involved in various military expeditions, notably supporting the campaigns of Nikephoros Phokas against Muslim territories. The reign ended with his untimely death, leading to a succession crisis that impacted the Byzantine Empire's stability.

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Abu Ja'far Ahmad ibn Muhammad

Saffarid emir and military leader
Born
June 21st, 906 1118 years ago
Died
March 31st, 963 1061 years ago — 56 years old

Born in 906, this individual rose to prominence as a Saffarid emir in Iran. The leadership spanned a pivotal era marked by military campaigns and territorial expansion. After assuming power, established control over large parts of Persia, including key cities such as Nishapur and Isfahan. Governed with a focus on military prowess and governance, contributing to the consolidation of the Saffarid dynasty. His reign was characterized by conflict with rival regional powers and attempts to expand the emirate's influence. Passed away in 963, leaving behind a legacy of military leadership.

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