Emperor Constantine XI Palaiologos of ROMEThe Last Emperor

Byzantine Empire Motto: Fact Check & History

The phrase "All what I can do" (or "Doing all that I can") is not the official motto of the Byzantine Empire.

The Official Byzantine Imperial Motto

The actual motto associated with the Byzantine Empire—specifically during the late Palaiologos Dynasty—was:

Βασιλεὺς Βασιλέων, Βασιλεύων Βασιλευόντων

(Basileus Basileōn, Basileuōn Basileuontōn)

Translation: "King of Kings, Ruling Over Rulers"

This motto was historically tied to the imperial heraldry featuring the double-headed eagle and the tetramrammatic cross (displaying four 'B' symbols).

---

Origins of "All What I Can Do"

If you came across this phrase in connection with Byzantium, it likely stems from one of two historical contexts:

• Emperor Constantine XI Palaiologos (The Last Emperor): During the final siege of Constantinople in 1453, historical accounts attribute tragic, stoic speeches to Constantine XI. Facing overwhelming Ottoman forces, he expressed that he would do everything in his power to defend the empire to his final breath.
• Modern Strategy Media & Gaming: Phrases like this are frequently misquoted or assigned as faction mottos in grand strategy video games (such as Total War, Crusader Kings, or custom community mods) and alternate history works.