Nikephoros II Phokas (Person)
Nikephoros II Phokas
912 AD - 969 AD
- Byzantine emperor 963 – 969
- Macedonian dynasty
His brilliant military exploits contributed to the resurgence of the Byzantine Empire during the 10th century. His reign, however, included controversy.
In the west, he inflamed conflict with the Bulgarians and saw Sicily completely turn over to the Muslims, while he failed to make any serious gains in Italy following the incursions of Otto I.
In the east, he completed the conquest of Cilicia and even retook the island of Cyprus, thus opening the path for subsequent Byzantine incursions reaching as far as Upper Mesopotamia and the Levant.
His administrative policy was less successful, as in order to finance these wars he increased taxes both on the people and on the church, while maintaining unpopular theological positions and alienating many of his most powerful allies.
- Spouse
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08/16/963 AD
No children in database
Events (5)
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