Tsar Samuil was a ruler of the First Bulgarian Empire, reigning from 997 to 1014. He is best known for his efforts to resist the Byzantine Empire's expansion and for uniting the Bulgarian territories. Under his leadership, Bulgaria reached its greatest territorial extent, and he established a strong military presence. Samuil's reign was marked by significant battles against the Byzantines, particularly the Battle of Kumanovo in 1014, where his forces faced a devastating defeat. Following this loss, he suffered a decline in power, and his kingdom eventually fell to the Byzantine Empire in 1018. His legacy remains an important part of Bulgarian history.