Emperor Leo III issues a series of edicts banning the veneration of images (726–729), and launching the iconoclastic controversies.[1] Most of the clergy – particularly in Italy and Greece – are opposed to these edicts with uncompromising hostility, and in the western parts of the Byzantine Empire the people refuse to obey his religious reforms.
Uprising in Venice against Byzantium: The cause of mass unrest is the iconoclastic decrees of Emperor Leo III. A few days later, political demands are put forward for wide autonomy within the Byzantine Empire and the right to appoint the ruler of the region (Doge). The rebels elect Orso Ipato the Doge of Venice. Desiring to preserve the proceeds of the treasury from the second most important port of the Byzantine Empire, and not having the resources to cope with a well-fortified and armed region, Byzantium agrees with all the requirements put forward. Orso Ipato is recognised by Leo III, who gives him the title hypatos. The Venetian fleet, led by Orso Ipato, frees Ravenna from the Lombards and restores the power of the Byzantine governor there.
