Theodore Palaiologos (son of Michael VIII)

Theodore Palaiologos (c. 1263 – 1310) was a Byzantine prince of the Palaiologos dynasty, the son of Emperor Michael VIII Palaiologos and Theodora Palaiologina. He held the title of sebastokrator and served as a military commander under his father and brother, Andronikos II Palaiologos.

Theodore was active in the Byzantine-Serbian wars of the late 13th century. He played a significant role in defending Byzantine territories against Serbian expansion, particularly in Macedonia and Thessaly. His military campaigns were often characterized by mixed success, facing challenges from both Serbian forces and internal political instability within the Byzantine Empire.

He married Theodora Raoulaina, a member of the Raoul family, a noble Byzantine house. They had several children, including:

• Andronikos Palaiologos
• Constantine Palaiologos
• Demetrios Palaiologos
• Eirene Palaiologina, who married John II Doukas of Thessaly.

Theodore Palaiologos' life reflects the turbulent period of the late Palaiologan era, marked by constant warfare, political intrigue, and the gradual decline of Byzantine power. His military activities and family connections place him as a significant figure within the Byzantine aristocracy of his time.