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.
Theuderic III
France
673–673; 675–679; 679–691
Dagobert II
France
676–679
Constantine IV
Rome
654–685
Childeric II
France
662–673; 673–675
Anastasia
Rome
668–685
Emperor Gaozong of Tang
China
649–683
Heraclius
Rome
659–681
Emperor Ruizong of Tang
China
684–690; 710–712
Pope Adeodatus II
Papacy
672–676
Justinian II
Rome
685–695; 705–711
Pope Agatho
Papacy
678–681
Pope Donus
Papacy
676–678
Empress Jitō
Japan
686–697
Pope John V
Papacy
685–686
Pope Leo II
Papacy
682–683
Pope Benedict II
Papacy
684–685
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 Tenmu
Hand-picked histories and biographies for readers who want more than the timeline: the same era, told in full.
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