Nikephoros Botaneiates, who belongs to the military…

Nikephoros Botaneiates, who belongs to the military aristocracy of Asia Minor and who is related to the powerful Phocas family, had become commander of the Anatolic theme, and, with some help from Suleiman, had been proclaimed emperor on January 7, 1078, by his supporters there.

He enters the capital three months later to claim the throne.

The aristocracy and clergy ratify his imperial claim, having already deposed Michael, who had abdicated on March 31, 1078.

The aged Botaneiates (he is seventy-six), as Nikephoros III, offers Bryennios the rank of Caesar and his nomination as heir to the throne if he will submit.