Stephen of Armenia facts for kids
Stephen of Armenia (born around 1111 – died February 7, 1165) was an important leader known as the Marshal of Armenia. He was the son of Leo I, Prince of Armenia and Beatrice de Rethel. His family played a big role in the history of the Armenian Kingdom of Cilicia, a powerful state in the Middle Ages.
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Stephen's Early Life and Role
Stephen was born into a noble family. His father, Leo I, Prince of Armenia, was a ruler in the region. In 1138, Stephen's father gave him the title of Marshal. A Marshal was a high-ranking military officer, like a general, who was in charge of the army and protecting the kingdom.
Facing Challenges and Escaping Danger
Around the time Stephen became Marshal, the region faced a big challenge. John II Comnenus, the powerful emperor of the Byzantine Empire, invaded Armenian lands. Stephen managed to avoid being captured by finding safety in the County of Edessa, a nearby state.
Conflicts and Unrest
Years later, in 1157, Stephen started taking military action against the Byzantine areas near a city called Marash. He did this even though his half-brother, Prince Thoros II, did not agree with his actions. Stephen tried to capture Marash, but he was not successful.
A Tragic Event
Later, the Byzantine governor of Tarsus, a man named Andronicus Euphorbenus, invited Stephen to a special dinner. The very next day, Stephen's body was found. Many people believed that Andronicus had caused his death.
The Aftermath and Peace
Stephen's half-brother, Prince Thoros II, was very upset and reacted strongly to Stephen's death. This led to a period of conflict with the Greeks in his territories. The situation could have escalated into a major war. However, Amalric I of Jerusalem, who was the King of Jerusalem, stepped in. He helped to calm things down and bring about a peaceful agreement between the different groups.
Stephen's Family
Stephen of Armenia was married to a woman named Rita from Barbaron. Together, they had at least three children:
