John VII Palaiologos

John VII Palaiologos, born in 1370, was a significant figure in Byzantine history, briefly ascending to the throne as emperor for five months in 1390. His reign, from April fourteenth to September seventeenth, was marked by political intrigue and familial conflict. Although he was known to sometimes use the name Andronikos, in honor of his father, Andronikos IV Palaiologos, he officially ruled under his birth name.

As the firstborn son of Emperor John V Palaiologos, Andronikos IV was initially the heir to the throne. However, after a failed rebellion in 1373, he faced imprisonment and blinding, a fate that may have also befell young John VII. Following his father's escape and subsequent rule over Constantinople until 1379, John VII was appointed co-emperor around 1377. Despite being deposed by his brother Manuel II Palaiologos, John VII's claim to the throne remained intact.

Upon the death of Andronikos IV in 1385, John VII inherited his claims, yet the political landscape shifted as Manuel was favored by their father. This led to John VII's rebellion and his brief capture of Constantinople in 1390. However, his reign was short-lived, as Manuel, with the assistance of the Ottomans and the Knights Hospitaller, deposed him after just five months. The rivalry between John VII and Manuel brought the empire to the brink of civil war on several occasions.

In 1394, as the Ottoman sultan Bayezid I besieged Constantinople, John VII was entrusted with the regency of the city. He demonstrated loyalty and resilience, successfully defending it during Manuel's absence. Following Bayezid's defeat in 1402, John VII negotiated a treaty that restored Thessalonica to imperial control. Despite his loyal service, he faced disgrace upon Manuel's return in 1403, but the two reconciled shortly after, allowing John VII to rule Thessalonica as 'Emperor of All Thessaly' until his death in 1408. His governance was well-regarded, particularly for his contributions to local church affairs and the city's defenses.