Anastasius I

Reign: 491 – 518
Life: 430–518

His reign was characterized by reforms and improvements in the empire's government, finances, economy and bureaucracy. The resulting stable government, reinvigorated monetary economy and sizeable budget surplus allowed the empire to pursue more ambitious policies under his successors, most notably Justinian I. Since many of Anastasius' reforms proved long-lasting, his influence over the empire endured for centuries. Anastasius was a Monophysite Christian and his personal religious tendencies caused tensions throughout his reign in the empire that was becoming increasingly divided along religious lines.

During Anastasius I's reign, Clovis I ruled France, Emperor Wu of Liang ruled China, and Pope Symmachus ruled Papacy.

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SPQR: A History of Ancient Rome by Mary Beard

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The most notable rulers who held power elsewhere at the same time, from European courts to Ottoman, Mughal, and Chinese thrones.

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SPQR: A History of Ancient Rome

Mary Beard

Beard's acclaimed introduction to Roman politics and emperors, readable and wide-ranging.

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