Recommended read
SPQR: A History of Ancient Rome
Mary Beard
Beard's acclaimed introduction to Roman politics and emperors, readable and wide-ranging.
The World During Their Reign
The most notable rulers who held power elsewhere at the same time, from European courts to Ottoman, Mughal, and Chinese thrones.
Theodosius II
Rome
402–450; 408–450
Emperor Ingyō
Japan
412–453
Emperor Wen of Liu Song
China
424–453
Emperor Taiwu of Northern Wei
China
423–452
Pope Celestine I
Papacy
422–432
Pope Leo I
Papacy
440–461
Pope Sixtus III
Papacy
432–440
Emperor Mingyuan of Northern Wei
China
409–423
Emperor Wu of Liu Song
China
420–422
Helian Bobo
China
407–425
Helian Chang
China
425–428
Pope Boniface I
Papacy
418–422
Emperor Shao of Liu Song
China
422–424
Meanwhile in history
One “meanwhile in history” story each week: who ruled where, and what was happening on thrones across the world.
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From the library
Go deeper on Aelia Eudocia
Hand-picked histories and biographies for readers who want more than the timeline: the same era, told in full.
A Short History of Byzantium
John Julius Norwich
A narrative survey of the Eastern Roman emperors from Constantine to the fall of Constantinople.
Find on Amazon
Rubicon: The Triumph and Tragedy of the Roman Republic
Tom Holland
A gripping account of the republic's last century, essential background to the imperial age.
Find on Amazon
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