Constantine XI Palaiologos

Reign: 1449 – 1453
Life: 1404–1453

Constantine's death marked the definitive end of the Eastern Roman Empire, which traced its origin to Constantine the Great foundation of Constantinople as the Roman Empire's new capital in 330. Little is known of his early life, but from the 1420s onward, he repeatedly demonstrated great skill as a military general. Based on his career and surviving contemporary sources, Constantine appears to have been primarily a soldier. Together, they extended Roman rule to cover almost the entire Peloponnese for the first time since the Fourth Crusade more than two hundred years before and rebuilt the ancient Hexamilion wall, which defended the peninsula from outside attacks.

During Constantine XI Palaiologos' reign, Henry VI of England ruled England, Charles VII of France ruled France, and Afonso V of Portugal ruled Portugal.

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.

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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