New Remarks on the History of Byzantine-Bulgar Relations in the Late Eighth and Early Ninth Centuries
New Remarks on the History of Byzantine-Bulgar Relations in the Late Eighth and Early Ninth Centuries

Summary/Abstract: This article is devoted to one of the most turbulent periods in history of Byzantine-Bulgar relations – the late eighth and early ninth centuries. It examines the driving factors behind the growing Byzantine involvement in the Balkans, which slowly escalated into a full-blown conflict with Bulgaria for political mastery over the diverse inhabitants of the region. It also discusses in detail the ways in which the Bulgars, led by a ruling elite with the skills naturally bred by a nomadic way of life, not only resisted Byzantine pressure, but were also able to move on to the offensive, becoming under the leadership of khan Krum in the early 800’s the most dangerous adversary the Empire had to face.

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