Qaitbay vs Tiberius II Constantine

Early in his reign, Qaitbay suppressed a revolt by the Emir of Aleppo, who had refused to recognize his authority. The sultan's forces marched to Aleppo, defeated the rebels, and executed the emir, securing his position as sultan.

Qaitbay ordered the construction of a fortress on the site of the ancient Lighthouse of Alexandria, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The citadel was built using stones from the ruined lighthouse and served as a key defensive fortification for the city.

Qaitbay funded a major restoration of the Dome of the Rock in Jerusalem, including repairs to the dome's mosaics and the addition of a marble facing. This project demonstrated Mamluk patronage of Islamic architecture and religious sites.

Qaitbay fought a protracted war against the Ottoman Empire over control of Cilicia and the buffer state of Dulkadir. The conflict ended with a peace treaty that maintained the status quo, with the Mamluks retaining their northern borders.

Tiberius II was known for his generosity, reducing taxes, distributing money to the poor, and remitting debts. He spent lavishly on public works and charity, earning him the epithet 'friend of the poor.' However, his spending depleted the treasury that Anastasius I had accumulated.

Tiberius II Constantine was proclaimed emperor by the Byzantine Senate and people after the death of Justin II. He was chosen for his popularity and reputation for generosity. His accession was marked by a distribution of gold to the people and a remission of taxes.

Tiberius II led campaigns against the Avars and Slavs who were raiding the Balkans. He achieved some successes, including the recapture of Sirmium in 582, but the Avars continued to pose a threat. His military efforts were hampered by limited resources and the ongoing war with Persia.

Tiberius II died after a short illness, having named the general Maurice as his successor. He married Maurice to his daughter Constantina and elevated him to co-emperor before his death. This ensured a smooth transition of power and continued the dynasty.