Abstract:

In the late 60s of the XI century, after the invasions of Sultan Alp Arslan, King Bagrat IV initiated active operations. During the summer and autumn of 1069 he arrested the Emir of Ganja, regained control over Tbilisi and reclaimed the castles occupied by the Seljuqs. Furthermore, he expelled them from all over the country. According to sources, during the reign of Bagrat IV, Seljuqs were not noticeable on the territory of Georgia in large numbers. During the period between the 60s and 70s the policy led by Bagrat IV was independent from the Byzantine Empire. The Georgian King could clearly see the weaknesses of the Byzantines and wanted to avoid the deterioration of relations with the Seljuqs because of them. The Georgian chronicles, describing the battles of Georgian troops together with the Byzantines against the Seljuqs in the 40s, mention nothing about the Battle of Manzikert (1071). Following from this we can assume that the Georgians, especially the Royal Court, did not participate in this battle. Apparently, Bagrat IV evaluated the weakness of the Byzantine Empire and did not join the war against the Seljuqs. We assume that with such a diplomatic action, Bagrat managed to save the country from another invasion of Alp Arslan. After the Battle of Manzikert Seljuqs conquered all of Armenia, Shriven and most of Anatolia, although Georgia was able to maintain its independence.

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