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Heraclius sailed from Carthage to Constantinople with a fleet and an army. Emper
610 Event

October 4

Heraclius Overthrows Phocas: Byzantine Empire Changes Hands by Sea

Heraclius sailed from Carthage to Constantinople with a fleet and an army. Emperor Phocas had murdered his way to power eight years earlier and driven the empire toward collapse. Heraclius captured the city, dragged Phocas from the palace, and executed him personally. He ruled for 31 years, defeated Persia, and lost half the empire to Arab invasions. His dynasty lasted a century.

October 4, 610

1416 years ago

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