Bardas Phokas the Younger

Quick Facts: Who was Bardas Phokas the Younger?

Subject:

Bardas Phokas the Younger

Known for:

Prominent 10th-century Byzantine general known for his military prowess and multiple rebellions.

Born:

940

Died:

989-04-13

Century / Era:

940s Historical Era Archive

Verified Source:

2Day Chrono-Wiki & Primary Historical Archives

Origins & Early Life

Bardas Phokas (or Phocas) (Greek: Βάρδας Φωκᾶς) (c. 940–13 April 989) was a Byzantine general who took a conspicuous part in three revolts for and against the ruling Macedonian dynasty. Bardas was a scion of the Phokas family, the most prominent Byzantine aristocratic clan in the 10th century. His father Leo Phokas the Younger was a curopalates and brother to the Emperor Nikephoros II Phokas. Even as a young man, Bardas gained a reputation for his great expertise in the science of war: According to the historians, this man Bardas reminded people of his uncle, the emperor Nikephoros, for he was always wrapped in gloom, and watchful, capable of foreseeing all eventualities, of comprehending everything at a glance. Far from being ignorant of warlike manoeuvres, he was thoroughly versed in every type of siege warfare, every trick of ambush, every tactic of pitched battle.

Pivotal Works & Achievements

In the matter of physical prowess, moreover, Bardas was more energetic and virile than Sclerus. Any man who received a blow from his hand was dead straightway, and whole armies trembled even when he shouted from afar. — Michael Psellos, Chronographia. If his military career was quick to peak, it was even quicker to collapse. Upon his uncle's death in 969, Phokas and his family rebelled against the new emperor and their own cousin, John I Tzimiskes.

Enduring Legacy & Impact

Bardas was proclaimed emperor by troops stationed at Caesarea, but their rebellion was extinguished by another skilled commander, Bardas Skleros. Phokas and his relatives were captured and exiled to the island of Chios, where he would spend the following seven years. In 978 Bardas was delivered from his prison cell by the eunuch Basil Lekapenos, Basil II's uncle and de facto regent. He was dispatched in disguise to his native Cappadocia to stir up the local aristocracy against Skleros, who had revolted against imperial authorities and advanced to the Hellespont. Despite several initial setbacks, and with the assistance of a Georgian army led by John Tornikios, Phokas eventually suppressed the revolt, gaining victory in single combat with Skleros.

Chronological Milestones & Life Events

1. 940: Birth of Bardas Phokas the Younger — Prominent 10th-century Byzantine general known for his military prowess and multiple rebellions.
2. 989 (0989-04-13): Passing & Historical Legacy — Bardas Phokas the Younger passed away on 0989-04-13, leaving an enduring historical legacy.

Notable Quotes by Bardas Phokas the Younger

“He was thoroughly versed in every type of siege warfare, every trick of ambush, every tactic of pitched battle.”

“he was given the privilege of a triumph and took his place among the personal friends of his sovereign.”

Historical Fact-Check Quiz: Bardas Phokas the Younger

True or False: “Bardas Phokas successfully maintained power as emperor after being exiled to Chios for seven years.”

Answer (FALSE ❌): After his first rebellion, Bardas and his relatives were captured and subsequently exiled to the island of Chios.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Bardas Phokas the Younger