A strategically vital region lying between the Byzantine and Persian spheres, Mesopotamia was a recurring object of conflict from Constantius II's campaigns against Shapur II through the seventh century, when Persia seized it after Phocas's failed military response to Khosrow's invasion. It was subsequently recovered by Heraclius as part of his peace settlement, though the region remained contested. In the tenth century, John Tzimiskes swept through it virtually unopposed as the weakened Abbasid caliphate proved unable to resist, though he declined to press on to Baghdad itself.
What each episode says
Episode 5 (2 mentions)
The territory demanded by Shapur II in his ultimatum to Constantius, along with Armenia. Constantius was interrupted from his campaign here when he marched to confront Julian.
“Because I take delight in moderation, I shall be content to receive Mesopotamia and Armenia”
“Constantius, fearing the worst, interrupted his campaign in Mesopotamia and marched against”
Episode 9 (1 mention)
The region invaded by the Persians in 544 after they recovered from the plague. The Persians were bought off for 28,000 gold pieces per year, demonstrating the financial and military strain on the empire during the Italian campaign.
“of Byzantine Mesopotamia.”
Episode 10 (1 mention)
Taken by Persia along with Armenia after Phocas sent a disorganized army against Khosrow, who routed it completely. Part of the vast territories recovered by Heraclius in the peace settlement.
“unopposed, swept further into Byzantine territory, taking all of Mesopotamia and Armenia.”
Episode 13 (2 mentions)
Swept through by John Tzimiskes virtually unopposed when it was clear the Abbasid caliphate of Baghdad couldn't resist — the emperor could have taken Baghdad itself but chose not to. Listed among the major cities and provinces Nikephoros Phokas also reconquered.
“One by one, Tarsus, Cyprus, and Aleppo, all the major cities in Mesopotamia and Syria,”
“He pacified Armenia and swept into Mesopotamia, virtually unopposed.”
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