Page "Basiliscus" Paragraph 2

Basiliscus succeeded in seizing power in 475, exploiting the unpopularity of Emperor Zeno, the " barbarian " successor to Leo, and a plot organised by Verina that had caused Zeno to flee Constantinople.

However, during his short rule, Basiliscus alienated the fundamental support of the Church and the people of Constantinople, promoting the Miaphysite christological position in opposition to the Chalcedonian faith.

Also, his policy of securing his power through the appointment of loyal men to key roles antagonised many important figures in the imperial court, including his sister Verina.

So, when Zeno tried to regain his empire, he found virtually no opposition, triumphantly entering Constantinople, and capturing and killing Basiliscus and his family.