790 Constantine assumes control of the government. Irene is unwilling to relinquish power and a struggle between the two begins.
791 The emperor conducts a campaign against the Bulgarians.
792 A conspiracy formed against Constantine by his uncles is suppressed and severely punished. Irene’s dignity restored. Second campaign against the Bulgarians.
795 Constantine divorces his wife Maria and marries Theodota.
796 Third Bulgarian campaign of Constantine.
797 Irene, taking advantage of Constantine’s unpopularity on account of his treatment of Maria, imprisons him and has his eyes put out. She now reigns alone. Conspiracy to place one of Constantine V’s sons on the throne.
798 Peace made with the Mohammedans.
800 Revival of the western division of the empire by the coronation of Charlemagne. There are now two distinct empires.
802 Conspiracy against and deposition of Irene. Nicephorus I, the treasurer, chosen emperor. He maintains political order but is a hard fiscal oppressor.
803 Death of Irene in exile. Bardanes, the general, proclaims himself emperor, but receiving no support, negotiates for his own pardon. Treaty with Charlemagne, regulating confines of the two empires.