Qipchaqs on the borders of Byzantine Empire (end of 11th - begin of 13th century)
This study is dedicated to relations between Qipchaqs and the Byzantine Empire in the 11th-13th centuries. Asenids descended from Byzantine proniars-Cumans. Qipchaq actively contacted with the Bulgarian elite and christianized under their influence. Relations of Qipchaqs with Byzantine Empite were complex and ambiguous. They ranged from the union to open hostility. During the reign of the Byzantine Empire of Komnens Qipchaqs avoided open conflict with the Empire, preferring to make occasional forays into the fleeting Byzantine neighborhood. During the reign of the Byzantine dynasty of Angels Qipchaqs become enemies of the Byzantine Empire and allies of Bulgarians. They actively supported Asenids and played the role of support groups in the Bulgarian campaign against Byzantium. When the Byzantine Empire fell under attack of the Crusaders in 1204, Qipchaqs remained loyal allies of the Bulgarians. Over the years 1205-1207 they took part in the campaigns of King Kaloyan against Latin Empire.