Basil I

Basil I (known as the Macedonian, 811 – August 29, 886) was perceived by Byzantine Greeks as one of their greatest emperors and founder of the most splendid imperial dynasty of Byzantium, the Makedonoi. The opinion of modern historians is less flattering, however, as it appears that reforms associated with his name were in reality launched by his predecessor, Michael III, whom Basil had assassinated.

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Basil I's ethnic origin has been a source of numerous controversies ever since his lifetime. Some suggested that his parents were Armenian peasants who migrated to the Hellenic region of Macedonia. It is more likely, however, that his family was of noble Greek descent.

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He spent a part of his childhood in captivity in Bulgaria, where his family had lived as captives of the Bulgarian prince Krum since 813. He succeeded in escaping and was ultimately lucky enough to enter the service of Theophilitzes, a relative of the Caesar Bardas (uncle of Michael III), as groom. While serving Theophilitzes he visited the city of Patrae, where he gained the favour of Danielis, a wealthy woman who took him into her household and endowed him with a fortune. He also earned the notice of Michael III by winning a victory in a wrestling match, and soon became the emperor's companion and bodyguard (parakoimomenos).

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811: Events...

August 29: August 29 is the 241st day of the year in the Gregorian Calendar (242nd in leap years), with 124 days remaining. It is also the 1st day of Thoth - which is the 1st day of the Egyptian Horoscope. Thoth is the Ibis-headed god of knowledge....

Basil I related Images and Photos (experimental)

Basil	Basil	Basil	Basil Rathbone
Basil in the Bathroom II	Basil the Great 1811-12	Toni Basil: The Best of Toni Basil: Mickey & Other Love Songs CD	Basil Rathbone and Nigel Bruce Print
St. Basil's Cathedral Red Square Moscow Russia	Tomatoes Basil and Mozzarella Cheese	Bathing Beauty Basil Rathbone 1944	People Outside St. Basil's Cathedral Moscow Russia