1261 Recovery of Constantinople by the Greeks of Nicæa. End of the Latin Empire of Romania. Although driven from their dominions, the descendants of Baldwin II are known in eastern Europe as titular emperors until 1383 when, with the death of James de Baux, the family of Baldwin became extinct.
THE GREEK EMPERORS AT NICÆA (1204-1261 A.D.)
1204 After the capture of Constantinople Theodore Lascaris, leader of the anti-Latin party, flees to Bithynia, and makes himself master of the city of Nicæa.
1206 Theodore (I) Lascaris crowned emperor by the Greek patriarch. His title is contested by several princes, among them Alexius Comnenus, reigning as emperor of Trebizond. David Comnenus, the latter’s brother, proceeds against him, but is badly defeated on the Sangarius.
1210 Alexius, father-in-law of Theodore, claims throne, supported by the sultan of Iconium. The latter slain in battle, Alexius falls into Theodore’s hand, and is put into a monastery.
1214 War with Henry of Romania. Peace defining limits of empire.
1214-1222 Years of peace.
1222 Death of Theodore. His son-in-law, Joannes (III) Ducas Vatatzes, succeeds. Theodore Angelus, despot of Epirus and Ætolia, assumes title of emperor of Thessalonica.
1224 Victory of Pemanene over Robert, the Latin emperor.