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Constantine XI Palaiologos

Type Figure Region Byzantine Empire Time 1404–1453 Also known as Constantine XI Palaiologos、Constantine XI、君士坦丁十一世、Dragases

The last Byzantine emperor (1449–1453), son of Manuel II. Formerly Despot of the Morea, he acceded after his brother John VIII died, defended Constan…

Timeline

  1. 1428–1448Mistra · PeloponneseCo-ruling the Peloponnese with his brother Thomas, he reorganized defenses and built fortresses in the Morea, and dealt with the Ottomans and local powers, accumulating military and political experience for the later defense of the capital.
  2. 1449–1452Constantinople · ConstantinopleAfter John VIII's death he acceded, sought aid from the West without success, hastened repairs to the Theodosian Walls, raised mercenaries and reorganized the garrison, while coordinating city defense and maritime supply with Genoa and other powers.
  3. 1453Constantinople · ConstantinopleHe personally led the defenders against Mehmed II's army and its giant cannon; when the walls were breached he was still fighting near them, and according to tradition died inside the city, becoming the empire's last ruler.

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