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Alexios IV AngelosByzantine Emperor in 1203-1204
Date of Birth: 01.01.1183
Country:  Turkey |
Content:
- Early Life and Exile
- Escape from Constantinople
- Flight to Germany
- Alliance with the Crusaders
- Restoration to Power
- Crisis and Unrest
- Anti-Latin Resentment
- Downfall
- Legacy
- Prelude to the Latin Empire
Early Life and Exile
Birth and FamilyAlexis IV Angelos was born in Constantinople, the son of Emperor Isaac II Angelos and his first wife, Irene. His mother died before he was born.
Escape from Constantinople
Usurpation and CaptivityIn 1195, Alexis's uncle, Alexius III, seized the throne and had Isaac II blinded. Alexis was placed under house arrest in Constantinople.
Flight to Germany
With the help of his tutor, Alexis escaped to Germany in 1202. He sought refuge with his sister Irene, who was married to King Philip of Swabia.
Alliance with the Crusaders
Fourth CrusadeAlexis met with Boniface of Montferrat, the leader of the Fourth Crusade, who offered support in Alexis's quest for the throne. In return, Alexis promised to pay the crusaders a large sum of money and aid their conquest of Egypt.
Restoration to Power
Siege of ConstantinopleThe crusaders arrived at Constantinople in 1203. Alexis's uncle, Alexius III, was defeated and fled the city. Isaac II was released from prison and proclaimed emperor again, with Alexis as his co-ruler.
Crisis and Unrest
Unfulfilled PromisesAlexis IV struggled to fulfill his financial obligations to the crusaders. He imposed heavy taxes, confiscated property, and even melted down church treasures.
Anti-Latin Resentment
The presence of the crusaders in Constantinople fueled resentment and violence against foreigners.
Downfall
Deposition and DeathIn 1204, Alexis's subjects demanded his removal, accusing him of incompetence and treachery. He was overthrown and imprisoned. Alexis's ambitious general, Alexius Doukas Mourtzouphlos, had him strangled. Isaac II died of grief shortly after.
Legacy
Loss of TerritoryDuring his brief reign, Alexis IV lost control of territories along the Black Sea coast, including Trebizond.
Prelude to the Latin Empire
Alexis IV's alliance with the crusaders ultimately led to the capture of Constantinople by the Latins and the establishment of the Latin Empire in 1204.
