Recommended read
SPQR: A History of Ancient Rome
Mary Beard
Beard's acclaimed introduction to Roman politics and emperors, readable and wide-ranging.
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.
Emperor Xuan of Chen
China
568–582
Tiberius II Constantine
Rome
574–582
Emperor Bidatsu
Japan
572–585
Xiao Kui
China
562–585
Pope Pelagius II
Papacy
579–590
Emperor Jing of Northern Zhou
China
579–581
Pope Benedict I
Papacy
575–579
Emperor Wen of Sui
China
581–604
Emperor Wu of Northern Zhou
China
560–578
Emperor Xuan of Northern Zhou
China
578–579
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 Ino Anastasia
Hand-picked histories and biographies for readers who want more than the timeline: the same era, told in full.
A Short History of Byzantium
John Julius Norwich
A narrative survey of the Eastern Roman emperors from Constantine to the fall of Constantinople.
Find on Amazon
Rubicon: The Triumph and Tragedy of the Roman Republic
Tom Holland
A gripping account of the republic's last century, essential background to the imperial age.
Find on Amazon
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