Ivan Asen II of Bulgaria

Ivan Asen II (Ioan Asen II) (1218–1241), tsar of Bulgaria, was the son of Asen, founder of the Second Bulgarian Empire. Under Ioan Asen's rule, the empire would become the dominant force in the Balkans.

Related Topics:
1218 - 1241 - Tsar - Bulgaria - Asen - Second Bulgarian Empire - Balkans

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After his father's death in 1207, Ioan's cousin, Boril, usurped the throne and forced him flee to the Russian principality of Galich-Volinia. With its support Ioan Asen returned to Bulgaria in 1218 to successfully overthrow his cousin and be crowned as tsar. He added Epirus, Macedonia and much of Albania and Serbia to his empire. After the battle at Klokotnitsa Medieval Bulgaria became the biggest country on the Balkan peninsula.

Related Topics:
1207 - Boril - Russia - Galich-Volinia - 1218 - Epirus - Macedonia - Albania - Serbia - Klokotnitsa

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Ivan Asen II was also reknown for his peaceful diplomacy. Never has any Bulgarian ruler before or after earned the reverence of his neighbours and the love of his people as much as Ivan Asen II did. He also had many daughters, whom he married away and further ensured the peaceful co-existance with the neighbouring kingdoms.

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