Byzantium Triumphant: The Military History of the Byzantines, 959-1025

Byzantium Triumphant is a book that chronicles the wars of the Byzantine emperors Nicephorus II Phocas, John I Tzimiskes, and Basil II, depicting the new energy and improved methods of warfare developed in the late tenth century. It is a gripping narrative underpinned by a detailed understanding of the Byzantine tactics, organization, training, and doctrine, with a healthy dose of court intrigue, assassination, and political skulduggery.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 15 October 2020
Publisher: Pen & Sword Books Ltd

The book Byzantium Triumphant delves into the intricate wars of three Byzantine emperors: Nicephorus II Phocas, his nephew and assassin John I Tzimiskes, and Basil II. It provides a detailed account of their battles, operations, and dramatic struggles, showcasing the innovative warfare techniques developed in the late tenth century. These emperors were engaged in a relentless fight for survival and dominance against formidable adversaries such as the Arab caliphates, Bulgars (Basil II earned the nickname "Bulgar Slayer" by later authors), and the Holy Roman Empire. In addition to these external threats, they also had to contend with civil wars and rebellions within their own borders.

Julian Romanes, through meticulous research, has crafted a captivating narrative that is supported by a deep understanding of Byzantine tactics, organization, training, and doctrine. While primarily focusing on military history, Byzantium Triumphant also incorporates a healthy dose of court intrigue, assassination, and political scheming, which are inherent aspects of the Byzantine empire.

Nicephorus II Phocas, the first emperor mentioned in the book, came to the throne in 963 after the death of his brother. He faced several challenges, including the resurgence of the Bulgars and the threat posed by the Arab caliphates. However, Phocas managed to consolidate his power and expand the Byzantine empire through a series of successful military campaigns.

One of the most significant events during Phocas's reign was the Battle of Manzikert in 971. This battle marked the beginning of the Byzantine-Turkish conflict, which would last for several centuries. The Byzantines, led by Phocas, were victorious, but the battle was costly, and it set the stage for future conflicts between the two empires.

John I Tzimiskes, Phocas's nephew and successor, came to the throne in 976. He was a skilled military leader but was also known for his cruelty and treachery. Tzimiskes was involved in several assassination attempts against his rivals, including his uncle Nicephorus II Phocas. He also engaged in a war with the Holy Roman Empire, which resulted in the loss of several territories.

Tzimiskes's reign was short-lived, as he was assassinated in 980 by his own bodyguard. His death marked the end of the Byzantine-Turkish conflict and the beginning of a period of instability and civil war.

Basil II, the third emperor discussed in Byzantium Triumphant, came to the throne in 976 after the death of his brother. He was a brilliant military strategist and is considered one of the most successful Byzantine emperors. Basil II was known for his campaigns against the Bulgars, which resulted in the expansion of the Byzantine empire into Bulgaria. He also engaged in a war with the Holy Roman Empire, which ended with the Byzantine victory at the Battle of Levounion in 1002.

Basil II's reign was marked by significant economic and cultural development. He established a new capital city, Constantinople, which became the center of the Byzantine empire. He also promoted the arts and literature, and he is credited with the development of the Byzantine Orthodox Church.

However, Basil II's reign was also marked by political instability and civil wars. He faced several rebellions and assassination attempts, and he was eventually assassinated in 1025 by his own bodyguard.

Byzantium Triumphant provides a detailed and comprehensive account of the wars of the Byzantine emperors Nicephorus II Phocas, John I Tzimiskes, and Basil II. It sheds light on the innovative warfare techniques developed in the late tenth century, the challenges faced by these emperors, and the political intrigue and scheming that characterized their reigns. The book is a valuable resource for anyone interested in the history of the Byzantine empire.

Weight: 388g
Dimension: 156 x 233 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781526782007