Anthology of Heroes

The Battle of Manzikert 1071 | Part Three: Emperor's Folly

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Episode notes

“The most decisive disaster in Byzantine history” - Steven Runciman

In the epic conclusion to our series, we delve into the monumental Battle of Manzikert in 1071.

Through the perspectives of Alp Arslan and Emperor Romanos IV Diogenes, we explore the motivations and strategies of these two pivotal leaders leading up to this climactic confrontation. Drawing from primary and secondary sources, we provide a detailed, blow-by-blow account of the battle, capturing the intensity and drama of the conflict.

Following the battle, we discuss its far-reaching consequences, marking the beginning of the Byzantine Empire's decline and its impact on world history.

What if The Byzantines won at Manzikert?

The Turks may have never settled Anatolia and the Greek Orthodox population may've maintained majority.

Join us as we unravel the events and aftermath of the Battle of Manzikert, a turning point that changed the course of history forever.

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• Sources and Attributions on our website.
• Cost Of Glory Podcast

CHAPTERS:

00:00:00-Recap of series

00:02:29-Romanos IV marches east

00:06:22-Alp Arslan caught off-guard

00:14:06-Peace negotiations fail

00:18:35-Battle begins

00:24:09-Romanos IV betrayed

00:29:29-Romanos IV returns to Constantinople

00:33:52-Death of Romanos IV

00:37:00-Aftereffects of the battle

00:40:14-Epilogue (rise of Alexios I)

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