Units of History - The Varangian Guard DOCUMENTARY
Invicta・26 minutes read
The Varangian Guard, consisting of elite mercenaries, played a crucial role in defending the Byzantine Empire for over 400 years, originating as a force under Prince Vladimir of Kiev to aid Emperor Basil the second. Despite facing defeat at the Battle of Manzikert in 1071, the Varangians continued to serve faithfully in various campaigns under the Komnenian dynasty until the decline and eventual dissolution of the Byzantine Empire.
Insights
- The Varangian Guard, established by Prince Vladimir of Kiev, became the backbone of the Byzantine Empire's military, defending the imperial throne for over four centuries and playing a pivotal role in various military campaigns and internal security duties.
- Varangians, known for their loyalty, fierce combat skills, and distinct roles within the Byzantine Empire, received privileges, higher pay than unskilled workers, and a share of battle loot, showcasing their integral position in the Empire's military structure and their lasting impact on Byzantine history.
Get key ideas from YouTube videos. It’s free
Recent questions
Who were the Varangian Guards?
Elite mercenaries in Byzantine Empire.
Related videos
Chronicle - Medieval History Documentaries
The Varangian Guard: The Brutal Special Forces Of Dark Age Byzantium | Ancient Black Ops | Chronicle
Epic History
The Last Great Roman General? Belisarius and the Wars of Justinian (All Parts)
Real Crusades History
How Hungary Finally CRUSHED the Mongols - DOCUMENTARY
TED-Ed
The rise and fall of the Byzantine Empire - Leonora Neville
Overly Sarcastic Productions
History RE-Summarized: The Byzantine Empire
Summary
00:00
"Varangian Guards: Elite Warriors of Byzantium"
- In 989 AD, Basil the second, Emperor of the Romans, faced internal strife within his realm, with factions vying for recognition as the true Heir of Rome.
- Constantinople was under threat, but six thousand veteran mercenaries sent by Prince Vladimir of Kiev arrived to aid Basil, leading to the defeat of rebel forces.
- The Varangian Guard, formed by these mercenaries, became the core of the Byzantine Empire's military, defending the imperial throne for over 400 years.
- The documentary "Vikings Merchants and Explorers" on Magellan TV delves into the lives of ancient Scandinavians, offering insights into their journey to Constantinople.
- The Roman Empire, after a thousand years of dominance, faced challenges in holding its vast territories together due to internal and external factors.
- Emperor Diocletian's power-sharing agreement in 293 AD divided the Empire into east and west, setting the stage for the Byzantine Empire's emergence.
- The Byzantine Army in the 10th century AD comprised Thematic Armies, composed of landholders with military obligations, and professional standing soldiers, including elite guard regiments.
- Mercenaries, organized under the Hetairai, were crucial to the Byzantine Army's strength, with the Varangian Guards being the most renowned among them.
- The Varangian Guards, originating from the north, were elite warriors who provided both military prowess and loyalty to the Byzantine Emperor.
- Varangians traveled south through trade routes, joined the Byzantine forces in various capacities, such as Sailing Varangians, Mercenary Varangians, or Varangians of the City, each with distinct roles and privileges.
15:42
Elite Varangian Guard: Loyalty, Wealth, and Warfare
- Varangian Guard, known as 'Varangians of the City', received privileges and extra gold compared to lower tier Varangians.
- Average Varangian of the City was paid 30-40 gold nomismata monthly, significantly higher than unskilled workers.
- Varangian Guard received one third of battle loot, with the rest going to the emperor and army.
- Varangians traditionally raided previous emperor's quarters when a new emperor ascended the throne.
- Positions in the Varangian Guard were highly competitive, requiring reputation, connections, and wealth.
- Varangians were fiercely loyal to their unit and the Emperor, described as fierce warriors by historian Michael Psellos.
- Varangians initially wore native gear but upgraded to Byzantine armor and weapons with wealth and access to superior armories.
- Varangians wielded two-handed battleaxes and adopted Byzantine shields, swords, and the rhomphaia.
- Varangians were a hybrid bodyguard and police force in Constantinople, involved in various activities and security duties.
- Varangians were heavily involved in military campaigns, serving as elite troops in dense formations and excelling in various tactics.
31:20
Varangians: Loyalty, Triumphs, and Decline
- The Varangians played a significant role in the might of Roman arms, contributing to the triumphs of the Byzantine Empire.
- The Varangians remained loyal to their oaths despite the Empire's economic and political struggles, intervening in times of crisis such as the removal of Emperor Michael the 5th.
- The Varangians faced a devastating defeat at the Battle of Manzikert in 1071, leading to a decline in the Byzantine Empire until the valiant efforts of the Komnenian dynasty.
- The Varangian Guard saw an influx of Anglo-Saxons after the Norman conquests of England, continuing to serve in campaigns under Emperor Alexios Komnenos.
- The Varangians played a crucial role in battles against the Normans, Crusaders, and Pechenegs, ultimately fading away alongside the Byzantine Empire after serving faithfully for nearly 400 years.
