Riots of Nika

The Nika Riots occurred in Constantinople in 532 AD when opponents of Emperor Justinian II, mainly chariot racing fans, united against his rule. Tensions had been building, and during a major sports event, they erupted into violence, fueled by political and social grievances. The riots quickly escalated, leading to widespread destruction and loss of life. Justinian initially considered fleeing but was persuaded to stay. He eventually suppressed the unrest with a brutal crackdown led by his general, Belisarius, restoring order and strengthening his control over the empire.