Basil the Copper Hand
Byzantine rebel leader in Bithynia, known for his copper hand and revolt against imperial authority.
Quick Facts: Who was Basil the Copper Hand?
- Subject:
- Basil the Copper Hand
- Known for:
- Byzantine rebel leader in Bithynia, known for his copper hand and revolt against imperial authority.
- Born:
- 900
- Died:
- 932
- Century / Era:
- 900s Historical Era Archive
- Verified Source:
- 2Day Chrono-Wiki & Primary Historical Archives
Origins & Early Life
Basil the Copper Hand (Greek: Βασίλειος ὁ Χαλκόχειρ, romanized: Basileios ho Chalkocheir; died c. 932) was a Byzantine rebel leader active in Bithynia in the 920s and early 930s. Basil was born in Macedonia (or possibly the theme of Macedonia). In the 920s, in the theme of Opsikion in Bithynia, he assumed the name of the general Constantine Doukas, who had been killed during an attempted coup in 913, and assembled a large following. He was arrested by the local tourmarches, however, and taken to Constantinople, where he was tried by the Eparch and had his hand cut off.
Career & Major Achievements
Upon returning to Opsikion, he fashioned for himself a copper hand holding a large sword, gathered poor and destitute people and began a rebellion. With his followers, he seized the stronghold of Plateia Petra and made it his base. The rebels raided the surrounding countryside indiscriminately, and returned with their plunder to Plateia Petra. The revolt was finally subdued by the imperial army, and Basil was brought back to Constantinople.
Enduring Legacy & Impact
There, he accused several magnates of being involved in the revolt, but an inquiry proved these claims false, and he was burned at the stake in the city's Forum Amastrianum. The revolt, dated to between 928 and c. 932, is often seen as a popular revolt expressing peasant discontent, and a major incentive for Emperor Romanos I Lekapenos's (r. 920–944) agrarian legislation of 934.
Chronological Milestones & Life Events
Historical Fact-Check Quiz: Basil the Copper Hand
True or False: “Basil the Copper Hand's rebellion was solely a political uprising orchestrated by disgruntled military officers.”
Answer (FALSE ❌): While involving military elements, the revolt is often interpreted as a popular movement expressing deep-seated peasant discontent regarding agrarian issues.
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- 900 Historical Timeline & Archive — Explore world events and figures from 900
- 932 Historical Timeline & Archive — Explore world events and figures from 932
Frequently Asked Questions about Basil the Copper Hand
Who was Basil the Copper Hand and what are their primary contributions?
Byzantine rebel leader in Bithynia, known for his copper hand and revolt against imperial authority. Origins & Early Life: Basil the Copper Hand (Greek: Βασίλειος ὁ Χαλκόχειρ, romanized: Basileios ho Chalkocheir; died c. 932) was a Byzantine rebel leader active in Bithynia in the 920s and early 930s. Basil was born in Macedonia (or possibly the theme of Macedonia). In the 920s, in the theme of Opsikion in Bithynia, he assumed the name of the general Constantine Doukas, who had been killed during an attempted coup in 913, and assembled a large following. He was arrested by the local tourmarches, however, and taken to Constantinople, where he was tried by the Eparch and had his hand cut off.
When was Basil the Copper Hand born and during which historical era did they live?
Basil the Copper Hand was born on 900 and passed away on 932. For complete historical world events during this era, explore the 900 Chrono-Archive.
Where can I read more verified chronological archives on Basil the Copper Hand?
Explore verified primary sources, interactive timelines, and contemporary figures in the 2Day Chrono-Wiki encyclopedia or review the original entry on Wikipedia.
Source: Wikipedia