Basiliscus

Europe and the Near East at 476 AD

Cnidus Aphrodite Altemps Inv8619

Basiliscus was a Byzantine Emperor who reigned from 475 to 476 AD. His rule is often considered a notable example of the instability that plagued the late Roman Empire, leading up to its eventual fall in the West.

Early Life

Little is known about the early life of Basiliscus. He was a member of the Anastasian dynasty through marriage to Zenonis, and he was the brother of Verina, the wife of Emperor Leo I. This connection to the imperial family propelled his rise to power within the military and the court.

Rise to Power

Basiliscus came to prominence during the reign of Leo I, serving as a general in the Byzantine army. He played a significant role in the disastrous expedition against the Vandals in 468, which ended in a severe defeat for the Byzantine fleet. Despite this failure, Basiliscus managed to retain his position and influence at court, largely due to his familial connections.

In 475, with the support of his sister Verina, Basiliscus staged a coup d'état against Emperor Zeno, forcing him to flee Constantinople. Basiliscus was then proclaimed emperor by his supporters and the Senate.

Reign

The reign of Basiliscus was marked by internal strife and external threats. He immediately faced opposition from various factions within the empire, including supporters of the deposed Emperor Zeno. His religious policies, particularly his support for the Monophysite doctrine, alienated the Orthodox establishment and further divided the empire.

Basiliscus issued a circular letter, known as the Encyclion, in which he promoted Monophysitism, leading to significant religious unrest. His economic policies were also unpopular, and he was criticized for excessive taxation and for the financial strain caused by his lavish spending on public spectacles.

Downfall and Death

The unpopularity of Basiliscus, combined with his failure to secure the loyalty of the military and the elite, paved the way for the return of Zeno. In 476, with the support of key military figures, Zeno marched on Constantinople. Basiliscus, lacking significant support, was captured and deposed.

Following his deposition, Basiliscus was exiled to Cappadocia, where he was eventually executed by order of Emperor Zeno. His death marked the end of his brief and tumultuous reign, and Zeno was restored to the throne, ruling until his death in 491.

Legacy

The reign of Basiliscus is often cited as an example of the political instability and internal divisions that weakened the Byzantine Empire in the 5th century, contributing to the decline of Roman power in the West. His failure to address the empire's pressing issues and his unpopular religious policies are seen as significant factors in his rapid fall from power.

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