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.

Olof Skötkonung
Sweden
995–1022

Cnut the Great
England
1016–1031

Basil II
Rome
982–1025

Robert II of France
France
996–1031

Henry II, Holy Roman Emperor
Holy Roman Empire
1014–1024

Eric the Victorious
Sweden
982–995

Otto III
Holy Roman Empire
996–1002

Æthelred the Unready
England
982–1013
Conrad II
Holy Roman Empire
1027–1031

Anund Jacob
Sweden
1022–1031

Emperor Zhenzong of Song
China
997–1022

Malcolm II of Scotland
Scotland
1005–1031

Emperor Ichijō
Japan
986–1011

Emperor Taizong of Song
China
982–997

Hugh Capet of France
France
987–996

Emperor Go-Ichijō
Japan
1016–1031

Emperor Renzong of Song
China
1022–1031

Kenneth II of Scotland
Scotland
982–995

Pope Benedict VIII
Papacy
1012–1024

Pope John XV
Papacy
985–996

Kenneth III of Scotland
Scotland
997–1005

Constantine VIII
Rome
1025–1028

Romanos III Argyros
Rome
1028–1031

Pope John XIX
Papacy
1024–1031

Emperor Sanjō
Japan
1011–1016

Pope John XVIII
Papacy
1003–1009

Pope Sylvester II
Papacy
999–1003

Pope Gregory V
Papacy
996–999

Pope Sergius IV
Papacy
1009–1012
Ring of Sweden
Sweden
993–1000
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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