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.
Childeric II
France
662–673; 673–675
Theuderic III
France
673–673; 675–679; 679–691
Emperor Gaozong of Tang
China
649–683
Dagobert II
France
676–679
Heraclius
Rome
659–681
Constans II
Rome
641–668
Anastasia
Rome
668–685
Pope Vitalian
Papacy
657–672
Emperor Tenmu
Japan
672–686
Emperor Tenji
Japan
661–672
Emperor Ruizong of Tang
China
684–690; 710–712
Pope Adeodatus II
Papacy
672–676
Pope Agatho
Papacy
678–681
Pope Martin I
Papacy
649–655
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 Constantine IV
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.
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