ABSTRACT

This chapter sets out the historical and political background against which Byzantium's troubles in the Adriatic developed from the end of the eighth century onwards. Although still threatened by foreign powers, during this period Byzantium allegedly entered the early stages of a virtuous cycle, which would lead to the expansion and prosperity of the 'Macedonian' Age. During the reign of Nikephoros I, the political and economic recovery of the empire became more solid. In order to counter the reduction in military manpower (due to the fact that many of the individuals who owed military service on a hereditary basis, with the requirement to provide their own mounts and equipment, had become impoverished), Nikephoros arranged for the village community to cover the cost. The cost was covered through an annual contribution of 18 1/2 nomismata, while at the same time, the members of the fiscal community were made responsible for the enrolled man's public taxes.