Battle of Anchialus (708)

Quick Facts: Who was Battle of Anchialus (708)?

Subject:

Battle of Anchialus (708)

Known for:

A pivotal 708 battle near Pomorie, Bulgaria, showcasing Bulgarian military prowess against Byzantium.

Verified Source:

2Day Chrono-Wiki & Primary Historical Archives

Origins & Early Life

The Battle of Anchialus (Bulgarian: Битката при Анхиало) (Medieval Greek: Μάχη του Αγχίαλου) occurred in 708 near the modern-day town of Pomorie, Bulgaria In 705, the Bulgarian Khan, Tervel helped the ex-emperor of Byzantium, Justinian II, regain his throne after 10 years in exile. To show his gratitude, Justinian gave the Bulgarians an enormous quantity of gold, silver, and silk, as well as the "Zagore" area, located between Stara Zagora, Sliven, and the Black Sea. Three years later, Justinian II considered himself strong enough to invade Bulgaria and restore his rule over these lands.

Career & Major Achievements

The Byzantines reached the Anchialus fortress and set their camp there, unaware of the fact that the Bulgarian army was in the vicinity. While the invaders were gathering food, Tervel and his cavalry charged the outermost Byzantine troops, while at the same time the infantry attacked the camp.

Enduring Legacy & Impact

The Byzantines were surprised and confused; most of them perished in the battle or were captured, as well as many horses and arms. The emperor was one of the very few who managed to reach the fortress and escape to Constantinople on a ship.

Historical Fact-Check Quiz: Battle of Anchialus (708)

True or False: “True or false: The Battle of Anchialus was fought primarily over the dispute of Byzantine control over the 'Zagore' region.”

Answer (TRUE ⭕): The conflict escalated because Justinian II sought to restore Byzantine rule over the lands, including the 'Zagore' area, which had been granted to the Bulgarians.

Contemporary Figures & Related Historical Timelines

• Battle of Ankara — Chrono-Wiki Encyclopedia Entry: The decisive battle of 1402 that shattered the Ottoman Empire and caused the Interregnum.
• Battle of Antietam — Chrono-Wiki Encyclopedia Entry: The bloodiest day in American history, a pivotal battle of the Civil War.
• Battle of Antioch (218) — Chrono-Wiki Encyclopedia Entry: A pivotal Roman battle in 218 CE that marked the downfall of Macrinus and the rise of Elagabalus.
• Battle of Athens (1946) — Chrono-Wiki Encyclopedia Entry: A 1946 citizen rebellion in McMinn County, Tennessee, against local political corruption.
• Battle of Austerlitz — Chrono-Wiki Encyclopedia Entry: Decisive 1805 battle where Napoleon's Grande Armée defeated a combined Russo-Austrian force.
• Battle of Ayacucho — Chrono-Wiki Encyclopedia Entry: Decisive 1824 battle securing Peruvian independence and ending Spanish rule in South America.

Frequently Asked Questions about Battle of Anchialus (708)