988

Events

Fall - Emperor Basil II, supported by a contingent of 6,000 Varangians, organizes the defences of Constantinople to meet a threat from the insurgents, Bardas Phokas the Younger and Bardas Skleros. Basil crosses the Bosphorus, and leads a surprise attack on the rebel camp of Kalokyros Delphinas, at Chrysopolis. Delphinas is captured and executed, either by crucifixion or by impalement.

April 1 - 16-year old Robert II of France is married to the much older Rozala. The marriage is arranged by Robert's father, King Hugh Capet, to secure the loyalty of the County of Flanders.
Borrell II, count of Barcelona, does not renew his allegiance to Hugh Capet. He becomes a de facto independent ruler, and starts minting its own currency – this will be confirmed legally by the Treaty of Corbeil (1258).
Charles, Duke of Lower Lorraine, revolts against Hugh Capet. He conquers the city of Laon in northern France with support of his half-brother Arnulf (archbishop of Reims).
Almanzor, de facto ruler of Al-Andalus, continues his offensive against the kingdoms of León and Castile. King Bermudo II escapes to Zamora; the city resists for four days, but is finally sacked and captured.

The Liao dynasty adopts civil service examinations in the 'Southern Chancellery', based on Tang dynasty models.

March 18 - The city of Odense in Denmark is founded. King Otto III grants trade rights and to the neighbouring settlements.