Leo II (emperor) - Definition and Overview

Imperator Caesar Flavius Leo Augustus or Leo II (467- November 17, 474) served as Eastern Roman Emperor from January 18 to November 17, 474. He was the son of Zeno I and Ariadne (the daughter of Leo I and Verina). As Leo's closest male relative, he was named successor, under the regency of Zeno, upon his grandfather's death. He died of an unknown disease about 10 months into his reign in November, 474, and was succeeded by his father, although his grandmother Verina took advantage of his death to conspire against Zeno.