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.
Eric the Victorious
Sweden
970–995
Otto I the Great
Holy Roman Empire
962–973
Emperor Taizu of Song
China
960–976
Otto II
Holy Roman Empire
973–983
Edgar, King of England
England
959–975
Emperor En'yū
Japan
969–984
Liu Jiyuan
China
968–979
Emperor Jingzong of Liao
China
969–982
Kenneth II of Scotland
Scotland
971–995
Pope John XIII
Papacy
965–972
Edward the Martyr
England
975–978
Pope Benedict VI
Papacy
973–974
Cuilén
Scotland
967–971
Pope Benedict VII
Papacy
974–983
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 John I Tzimiskes
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.
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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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