Theodosius III

Theodosius III, a tax collector from Adramyttium, rose to prominence in the Byzantine Empire during a tumultuous period. In May of the year seven hundred fifteen, he was unexpectedly acclaimed as emperor by the Byzantine navy and the troops of the Opsician Theme, who revolted against the reigning Emperor Anastasius II. Despite his initial reluctance, Theodosius led his forces to Chrysopolis and subsequently seized Constantinople in November of the same year, marking the beginning of his brief reign.

His ascension was not without controversy, as many viewed him as a puppet of the Opsician troops. His legitimacy was challenged by the Anatolics and the Armeniacs, led by strategoi Leo the Isaurian and Artabasdos. In the summer of seven hundred sixteen, Leo declared himself emperor and sought an alliance with the Umayyad Caliphate, further complicating Theodosius's position.

In a bid to secure his rule, Theodosius sought assistance from the Bulgarians under Khan Tervel, establishing a firm border at Thrace and ceding the Zagoria region while agreeing to pay tribute. However, as Leo's forces advanced, capturing Nicomedia and Theodosius's son, the situation became dire. Following the advice of Patriarch Germanus and the Byzantine Senate, Theodosius negotiated with Leo, ultimately agreeing to abdicate in favor of his rival.

On March twenty-fifth, seven hundred seventeen, Leo entered Constantinople, solidifying his power while allowing Theodosius and his son to retire to a monastery. The exact date of Theodosius's death remains uncertain, but it is believed he may have passed away on July twenty-fourth, seven hundred fifty-four.