Description: (Emperor)
Michael VII Doukas, also known as Parapinakes, ruled as the Byzantine emperor from 1071 to 1078. His reign was characterized by ineptitude and heavy reliance on court officials, notably his finance minister Nikephoritzes. The empire encountered difficulties such as the loss of Bari, rebellions in the Balkans, and clashes with the Seljuk Turks. Financial mismanagement, including excessive taxation and extravagant spending, led to uprisings within the military. Michael stepped down in 1078 and later withdrew to a monastery.