Michael Bourtzes

Michael Bourtzes (Greek: Μιχαήλ Βούρτζης, ca.

930/935 – after 996) is a leading Byzantine general of the latter 10th century.

He became notable for his capture of Antioch in 969, but falls into disgrace by the Emperor Nikephoros II Phokas (r. 963–969).

Resentful at the slight, Bourtzes joins forces with the conspirators who assassinate Phokas a few weeks later.

Bourtzes reappears in a prominent role in the civil war between Emperor Basil II (r. 976–1025) and the rebel Bardas Skleros, switching his allegiance from the Byzantine emperor to the rebel and back again.

Nevertheless, he is reappointed as doux of Antioch by Basil, a post he holds until 995, when he is relieved because of this failures in the war against the Fatimids.

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