Recommended read
Charlemagne
Johannes Fried
A magisterial modern biography of the emperor who forged medieval Europe.
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.
Emperor Dezong of Tang
China
779–805
Emperor Kanmu
Japan
781–806
Pope Adrian I
Papacy
772–795
Constantine VI
Rome
780–797
Pope Leo III
Papacy
796–816
Emperor Daizong of Tang
China
762–779
Charlemagne
Holy Roman Empire
800–814
Sakanoue no Tamuramaro
Japan (Shogunate)
797–811; 804–811
Emperor Xianzong of Tang
China
805–820
Nikephoros I
Rome
802–811
Emperor Kōnin
Japan
770–781
Constantine V
Rome
741–775
Carloman I
France
768–771
Irene of Athens
Rome
797–802
Leo IV the Khazar
Rome
775–780
Emperor Saga
Japan
809–823
Emperor Heizei
Japan
806–809
Pope Stephen III
Papacy
768–772
Meanwhile in history
One “meanwhile in history” story each week: who ruled where, and what was happening on thrones across the world.
By subscribing you agree to receive emails from us. See our Privacy Policy. Unsubscribe any time.
From the library
Go deeper on Charlemagne
Hand-picked histories and biographies for readers who want more than the timeline: the same era, told in full.
Some book links on this site point to Amazon. As an Amazon Associate, WhoWasRuling.com may earn from qualifying purchases.