Battle of Callinicum, 531 AD Belisarius intercepts the Persians in Syria DOCUMENTARY

In 531, a wedding in Callinicum is interrupted by news of a Persian army. Under Justinian, the Byzantine Empire faces ongoing conflicts with the Sasanid Empire. Military reforms are implemented, leading to initial setbacks and eventual victories. The Persians plan to capture Antioch, but the Romans, led by Belisarius, counteract. The Battle of Callinicum ensues, resulting in a Pyrrhic victory for the Sassanids. Both sides suffer heavy losses, leading to a temporary peace agreement.

What event was being celebrated in Callinicum before the Persian army's approach?

• A local festival

• The coronation of Justinian I

• A wedding of a local magistrate

• The founding of a new city

What was a significant challenge for the Byzantines during their conflict with the Sasanid Empire?

• Lack of a major base on the eastern frontier

• Shortage of skilled soldiers

• Internal political strife

• Inadequate naval power

What was the Sasanian King of Kings, Gavard I's, mistake in the early 520s?

• Attempting to invade Rome

• Trying to convert the Christian Caucasus region to Zoroastrianism

• Negotiating peace with the Byzantines

• Building a new capital city

What was the primary objective of the Persian campaign led by General Azarethis?

• To conquer Egypt

• To seize Antioch

• To capture Constantinople

• To invade Italy

What was the strategic position of Belisarius's forces during the Battle of Callinicum?

• On the right flank

• In a defensive position on a hill

• In the center

• On the left flank by the Euphrates

What was the outcome of the Battle of Callinicum?

• A complete rout of the Roman forces

• A stalemate with no clear winner

• A Pyrrhic victory for the Sassanids

• A decisive victory for the Byzantines

What was the consequence for General Azarethis after the Battle of Callinicum?

• He was exiled

• He was awarded honors

• He was removed from command

• He was promoted

What was the reason for the inquiry against Belisarius after the battle?

• His failure to capture Antioch

• His defeat at Callinicum

• His refusal to engage the enemy

• His retreat from the battlefield

What was the result of the peace agreement between the rival empires after the battle?

• It was broken immediately

• It led to a new war

• It lasted until 540

• It lasted indefinitely

What was the strategic mistake made by Belisarius during the battle?

• Underestimating the Persian cavalry

• Failing to notice the change in Persian formation

• Overextending his forces

• Ignoring the advice of his officers