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Episode 309 - Cautious and Weak

September 4, 2024·23 min·2 clips
Andronicus II disbanded the Byzantine navy to save money, a move that left Constantinople defenseless against Italian powers.
This episode covers the reign of Byzantine Emperor Andronicus II Palaiologos, focusing on his challenges with church union, the defense of Anatolia against Turkish invasions, and financial crises. Key events include disbanding the navy, conflicts with Italian powers like Venice and Genoa, and the risky decision to hire Catalan mercenaries, all set against his cautious and weak personality.
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