
Recommended read
A History of Japan: From Stone Age to Superpower
Mikiso Hane & Louis Perez
A clear textbook-style history covering emperors, shoguns, and Japan's modern transformation.

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

George III of Great Britain
Great Britain
1760–1801

Catherine II of Russia
Russia
1762–1796

Joseph II, Holy Roman Emperor
Holy Roman Empire
1765–1790

Frederick II of Prussia
Prussia
1740–1786

Shah Alam II
Mughal Empire
1760–1788; 1788–1806

Qianlong Emperor
China
1735–1796

Charles III of Spain
Spain
1759–1788

Tokugawa Ieharu
Japan (Shogunate)
1760–1786

Gustav III of Sweden
Sweden
1771–1792

Louis XVI of France
France
1774–1791

Abdul Hamid I
Ottoman Empire
1774–1789

Joseph I of Portugal
Portugal
1750–1777

Pope Pius VI
Papacy
1775–1799

Louis XV of France
France
1715–1774

Mustafa III
Ottoman Empire
1757–1774

Pope Clement XIV
Papacy
1769–1774

Maria I of Portugal
Portugal
1777–1816
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
Hand-picked histories and biographies for readers who want more than the timeline: the same era, told in full.

Recommended read
Mikiso Hane & Louis Perez
A clear textbook-style history covering emperors, shoguns, and Japan's modern transformation.
Some book links on this site point to Amazon. As an Amazon Associate, WhoWasRuling.com may earn from qualifying purchases.