Tatikios

Tatikios (c. 1057 - c. 1103) was a Byzantine commander during the First Crusade, one of the closest advisors of Emperor Alexios I Comnenus.

Early Life and Education

The exact date of his birth is unknown, but it can be assumed that he was born in 1056 or around 1057-1058. His father was a Turk captured by John Comnenus and served in the imperial palace as a servant. Tatikios grew up with the future emperor Alexios I Comnenus.

Military and Administrative Career

In 1078, Tatikios participated in the suppression of the uprising of the rebellious commander Nikephoros Basilica, alongside Emperor Alexios I Comnenus. After the accession of Alexios to the throne, he received the title of chief primicerium (an important administrative position) and on October 18 of the same year commanded the corps of the Turkopols in the battle of Dirrachia.

During the war with the Normans, Tatikios led detachments of Muslims from the vicinity of Ohrid. In 1086, he played a significant role in the military campaigns against the Normans.

First Crusade

In 1096, Tatikios led the garrison of Constantinople which rejected the crusader attack on the city. He later accompanied the crusader army as one of its commanders.

Death and Legacy

The exact date of his death is unknown, but it is believed to be around 1103. Despite the lack of detailed information about his life after the First Crusade, Tatikios remains an important figure in Byzantine history due to his close relationship with Emperor Alexios I Comnenus.

References

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