How did Phocas initially rise to prominence?
As a governor
As a tribal chief
As a spokesman for soldiers
As a senator
Answer
Phocas initially rose to prominence as a spokesman for soldiers in the Byzantine army, who were unhappy with the policies of Emperor Maurice. Phocas had himself declared emperor in 602 after leading a mutiny against Maurice. Phocas' reign was characterized by military defeats and religious persecution. He was assassinated by soldiers in 610, and was succeeded by Heraclius.
The Byzantine Odyssey: Unraveling the Enigma of Emperor Phocas
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