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Vasiliy Velikiy KomninEmperor of the Empire of Trebizond in 1332-1340
Date of Birth: .
Country:  Dive |
Content:
- Basil of Trebizond: Emperor of a Troubled Empire
- Ascent to the Throne
- Repression and Unrest
- Distrust and Unpopularity
- Diplomatic Alliances and Love Affairs
- Death and Succession
Basil of Trebizond: Emperor of a Troubled Empire
Early Life and ExileBasil, the youngest son of Emperor Alexius II and Djiadjak Jaqeli, was forced to flee to Constantinople after his elder brother Andronicus seized the throne of Trebizond in 1330 and murdered two of his other brothers.
Ascent to the Throne
When Andronicus III died and his young son Manuel ascended, pro-Byzantine factions in Trebizond invited Basil to return from Constantinople and take the throne. In August 1332, Manuel was overthrown, and Basil was crowned emperor.
Repression and Unrest
Basil's rule began with the suppression of Georgian nobles who held high positions in Trebizond. However, in February 1333, a rebellion erupted in support of the deposed Manuel. Basil quelled the uprising and ordered Manuel executed on February 21st to prevent further challenges.
Distrust and Unpopularity
Suspicious of the local nobility and unpopular with the populace, Basil relied heavily on mercenary bands, who often behaved aggressively towards the inhabitants. After a solar eclipse on March 3rd, 1337, the citizens attempted to stone Basil, forcing him into hiding.
Diplomatic Alliances and Love Affairs
In 1335, Basil married Irene, the illegitimate daughter of Byzantine Emperor Andronicus III Palaeologus, as part of a dynastic alliance. However, their relationship soured, and Basil began an affair with another Irene from Trebizond. He eventually married her in 1339, prompting the excommunication of Irene Trapezuntine and the condemnation of the bishop who approved their divorce.
Death and Succession
Basil died on April 6th, 1340, likely poisoned by his wife Irene Palaeologus, who quickly seized the throne after his demise.
