Norman Expansion in Southern Italy

Timeline

1. 1009Bari · ApuliaIn 1009 the Lombard noble Melus launched a revolt in Bari, a major Apulian town under Byzantine rule, against the oppressive taxation and rule of the Byzantine governor Basil Mesardonites, quickly winning the support of some local nobles.
2. 1009–1010Apulia · ApuliaThe Byzantine Empire dispatched troops to suppress the revolt; after his defeat Melus fled into exile in the Duchy of Salerno and elsewhere. Though the revolt failed, it shook Byzantine rule in Apulia and laid the groundwork for the later introduction of Norman mercenaries.
3. 1017–1018Campania · CampaniaIn 1017 Melus, joined by the first Norman mercenaries (including Rainulf Drengot), returned to fight in southern Italy, achieving initial victories in Campania. Though Melus died in battle in 1018 and the revolt failed again, the Norman warriors had established a foothold in the south, opening the way for the later founding of Norman duchies.