Why did Emperor Justinian kill all those people in the hippodrome?

Emperor Justinian ordered the massacre of thousands of people in the Hippodrome during the Nika Riots in 532 AD to quell a major uprising against his rule. The riots were sparked by discontent over taxes and political issues, and the factions involved, particularly the Blues and Greens, posed a significant threat to his authority. By violently suppressing the revolt and eliminating the rioters, Justinian sought to restore order and assert his power in Constantinople. This brutal action ultimately solidified his position but also left a lasting mark on his reign.