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 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.
Henry II of England
England
1154–1189
Alfonso VIII of Castile
Spain
1158–1214
Alfonso II of Aragon
Spain
1164–1196
Afonso I of Portugal
Portugal
1139–1185
Louis VII of France
France
1137–1180
Knut Eriksson
Sweden
1173–1196; 1173–1195
Emperor Shizong of Jin
China
1161–1189
Emperor Xiaozong of Song
China
1162–1189
Manuel I Komnenos
Rome
1143–1180
Frederick Barbarossa
Holy Roman Empire
1155–1190
William the Lion
Scotland
1165–1214
Pope Alexander III
Papacy
1159–1181
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 Emperor Takakura
Hand-picked histories and biographies for readers who want more than the timeline: the same era, told in full.
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