Michael VIII Paleologus was a Byzantine emperor who reigned from 1259 to 1282. He is best known for restoring the Byzantine Empire after the Latin occupation, which began with the Fourth Crusade in 1204. Michael successfully recaptured Constantinople in 1261, marking the end of the Latin Empire and the beginning of the Palaiologos dynasty. During his reign, Michael VIII focused on strengthening the empire's economy and military. He implemented various reforms and sought to improve relations with the Roman Catholic Church, although his attempts at unification were met with resistance. His reign is often seen as a period of recovery for the Byzantine Empire.