Irene Blinded Son Seized Power

Irene of Athens became regent of the Eastern Roman Empire after her husband, Emperor Leo IV, died in 780, ruling on behalf of their young son Constantine VI. As Constantine grew older, mother and son struggled for control until Irene organized a conspiracy in 797 that had him captured, blinded, and confined, after which she became the empire's sole ruler for more than five years. In 802, officials overthrew her and eventually exiled her to the island of Lesbos, where she reportedly supported herself by spinning wool before dying in 803.

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