7.1 Armenian Historical Figures (Historical)

Artashes I

The founder of Artashesian dynasty, he succeeded in unifying the Armenian lands and people into one Armenian-speaking state

Ashot II (Yerkat) Bagratuni

He reestablished Armenian independence after 200 years of Arab rule and founded the Armenian Kingdom

Israel Ori

Leader of national liberation (17-18 centuries), brought Armenia’s independence to the attention of international powers

St. King Trdat

The first Armenian king who saw the light and accepted Christianity, helped build Holy Etchmiadzin

Hetum I

King of the Cilician Armenian Kingdom, balancing the Crusaders with a policy of alliance and friendship with the Mongol leaders

St. Mesrob Mashdots

First a soldier, then a priest and scribe in the royal court, the founder of Armenian Alphabet, with Catholicos St. Sahag

David Bek

Leader of national liberation, led the Armenians of Artsakh and Zangezur in civilian self-defense against Persian and Ottoman oppression

Khrimian Hayrig

Catholicos, Patriarch of Constantinople, the author of “iron ladle” sermon, on Armenians’ right to self-defense

Tigran the Great

Ruler of the largest Armenian state. Remembered as a tolerant king

Ruben I

The founder of Armenian Cilician state

St. Vartan Mamikonian

St. Sahag’s grandson, he stood up for the Christian faith of his fathers. Tensions came to a tragic end at a battle on the field of Avarayr