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.
Alfred the Great
England
871–899
Charles the Bald
Holy Roman Empire
875–877
Emperor Xizong of Tang
China
873–888
Causantín mac Cináeda
Scotland
862–877
Emperor Seiwa
Japan
858–876
Pope John VIII
Papacy
872–882
Emperor Yizong of Tang
China
859–873
Giric
Scotland
878–889
Emperor Yōzei
Japan
876–884
Eochaid ab Rhun
Scotland
878–889
Huang Chao
China
881–884
Lothair II of Lotharingia
France
855–869
Pope Adrian II
Papacy
867–872
Emperor Kōkō
Japan
884–887
Áed mac Cináeda
Scotland
877–878
Pope Marinus I
Papacy
882–884
Pope Adrian III
Papacy
884–885
Pope Nicholas I
Papacy
858–867
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 Basil I
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.
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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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