
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.

Henry II of England
England
1154–1189

Alfonso VIII of Castile
Spain
1158–1214

Afonso I of Portugal
Portugal
1139–1185

Karl Sverkersson
Sweden
1161–1167

Louis VII of France
France
1137–1180

Manuel I Komnenos
Rome
1143–1180

Frederick Barbarossa
Holy Roman Empire
1155–1190

Malcolm IV of Scotland
Scotland
1153–1165

Pope Alexander III
Papacy
1159–1181

Alfonso II of Aragon
Spain
1164–1196

Saint Erik
Sweden
1156–1160

Emperor Gaozong of Song
China
1127–1129; 1129–1162

Magnus Henriksson
Sweden
1160–1161

Emperor Shizong of Jin
China
1161–1189

Wanyan Liang
China
1150–1161

Emperor Xiaozong of Song
China
1162–1189

Pope Adrian IV
Papacy
1154–1159
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
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.
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