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Nika riots

Byzantine history
Also known as: Nika insurrection, Nika revolt

Quick Summary

The Nika riots were a significant uprising in Byzantine history that occurred in Constantinople in 532 CE. The riots stemmed from the factions supporting rival charioteers, the Blues and the Greens, who united in political opposition to Emperor Justinian I. The unrest escalated into a full-blown revolt, threatening Justinian's throne and resulting in widespread destruction and loss of life, with an estimated 30,000 people killed in the suppression of the revolt by Justinian's general, Belisarius. Despite the near disaster, Justinian's position was ultimately strengthened, and he proceeded with his ambitious plans, including the rebuilding of the Hagia Sophia.12

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