Nikephoros II Phokas

High school (ages 12+)
History & Culture

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Step 1 · Read the article

Open the article and read it at the level above. Then answer the questions below in your own words.

https://smallwhale.org/articles/nikephoros-ii-phokas

Write what each word means, using the article.

Do not copy the article. Write two things you learned, the way you would explain them to a friend.

Answers below are taken from the article’s stored facts, so they match what the student read.

1. When was Nikephoros II Phokas born?Circa 912
2. When did Nikephoros II Phokas die?December 11, 969
3. What is the imperial reign?963 – 969 AD
4. What is the notable epithet?Pale death of the Saracens (Greek: 'leukos thanatos ton Sarakenon')
5. Who was Nikephoros II Phokas?Nikephoros II Phokas was a brave soldier who later became emperor of the Byzantine Empire. He was known for his skill on the battlefield and his love for his soldiers.
6. How did Nikephoros become emperor?After winning many battles and earning the loyalty of his troops, Nikephoros was chosen to become emperor in 963. His reputation as a great commander helped him take the throne.

Byzantine Empire: The eastern continuation of the Roman Empire, centered in Constantinople, existing from the 4th to the 15th century.
Saracens: A historical term used primarily in medieval Europe to refer to Muslims, particularly Arabs and Turks.
Geopolitical Landscape: The influence of geography on international relations and power dynamics between states.
Imperial Resurgence: A period of renewed strength, expansion, and influence for an empire after a decline.