Leontius

Leontius, born in Isauria in Asia Minor in the year six hundred sixty, rose to prominence as a Byzantine ruler under the regnal name Leo from six hundred ninety-five to six hundred ninety-eight. His early life remains largely a mystery, but his military prowess became evident when he was appointed strategos of the Anatolic Theme by Emperor Constantine IV. He played a crucial role in the defense against the Umayyads, achieving significant victories that compelled the caliph Abd al-Malik ibn Marwan to seek peace.

In six hundred ninety-two, Emperor Justinian II declared war on the Umayyads once more, entrusting Leontius with the campaign. Unfortunately, this endeavor ended in disaster at the Battle of Sebastopolis, leading to his imprisonment by Justinian. However, his fortunes changed in six hundred ninety-five when he was released and appointed strategos of the Theme of Hellas in Southern Greece.

Emboldened by his newfound freedom, Leontius orchestrated a rebellion against Justinian, ultimately seizing power and declaring himself emperor in the same year. His reign, however, was short-lived, as he was overthrown in six hundred ninety-eight by Apsimarus, a droungarios who had previously participated in a failed expedition to reclaim Carthage.

Apsimarus captured Constantinople, assumed the name Tiberius III, and brutally punished Leontius by mutilating him before exiling him to the Monastery of Dalmatou. He remained there until sometime between August seven hundred five and February seven hundred six, when Justinian had regained the throne. Tragically, both Leontius and Tiberius met their end through execution.