George learned from the disastrous 1123 expedition against Mahdia, where Christodoulos reportedly ignored his local knowledge. Roger elevated George above his former superior the next year and later entrusted him with the blockade of Amalfi. The promotion implied that Roger believed George's advice could have changed the failed expedition. Their effective command arrangement placed fleets, intelligence, administration, and logistics with George while Roger concentrated on decisions and land warfare.
Chapter · 36:00-38:44
Becoming admiral of admirals through hard-earned command
A failed African expedition, promotion in 1124, and the blockade of Amalfi define the division of labor between George and Roger II.