Alexius III Angelus was a Byzantine Emperor who ruled from 1195 to 1203. He came to power by overthrowing his brother, Isaac II Angelus, and was known for his luxurious lifestyle and ineffective governance. His reign was marked by internal strife and external threats, particularly from the Crusaders. In 1203, Alexius III faced a major crisis when the Fourth Crusade attacked Constantinople. Unable to defend the city, he fled, leading to the eventual capture of Constantinople by the Crusaders in 1204. His departure marked the end of the Byzantine Empire's control over the city for several decades.