The Conquest of Galipoli by the Ottomans and the Policy of Tsar Ivan Alexander in 1354–1355

Authors:

Pages: 376-385
DOI: https://doi.org/10.54664/EYIA9322

Abstract:

The article focused on the information of the Venetian Ambassador in Constantinople, Marko Venierо from August 6, 1354. According to the Venetian diplomat in Byzantine society considered ideas for the transmission of the Empire to Venice, Serbian state, or Hungary. The question is why Bulgaria is not mentioned in these plans. This is due to the lower possibilities of the Bulgarian state compared to the others. The author accepts that at the same time Emperor John Cantacuzine concluded a treaty with the Ottomans. By this document, Byzantium recognizes the loss of Gallipoli. A new period comes with the assumption of power by John V Paleologus (end of 1354). In the summer of 1355 was signed a Bulgarian-Byzantine treaty. According to the document, was created, a common front against the Ottomans. In December 1355, the Emperor turned to the Papacy with a request for help. This means that he does not rely only on the contract with the Bulgarian ruler. The Emperor is ready to abdicate in favor of his son, Andronik, who is now the son-in-law of the Bulgarian Tsar. This is what Tsar Ivan Alexander expects, but his plans fail. This is the main reason he does not fight the Ottomans.

Keywords:

Оttoman conquest, Bulgaria, Byzantium, Venice, Serbia, Balkan diplomacy.

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