813 - 820

Co-emperor: Constantine (813 - 820)

When Michael I was ousted from his throne, he was replaced by Leo V. Leo immediately began to fight the Bulgars, the defeats at whose hands had led to Michael's overthrow. He had some initial success, but was only truly successful on the death of the Khan in 814. Leo then turned his attentions to matters theological, as was the Byzantines' wont. He was an iconoclast, an idea that had probably had its day by then. However, he enforced his beliefs by using inhumane persecution of his opponents. Ultimately, his cruelty led to his murder within the great church of St Sophia on Christmas Day, 820.