Recommended read
Byzantium: The Surprising Life of a Medieval Empire
Judith Herrin
Justinian II, deposition, mutilation, and the extraordinary second reign.
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.
Childebert III
France
695–711
Theuderic III
France
673–673; 675–679; 679–691
Clovis IV
France
691–695
Dagobert III
France
711–715
Empress Jitō
Japan
686–697
Emperor Zhongzong of Tang
China
684–684; 705–710
Emperor Ruizong of Tang
China
684–690; 710–712
Pope Sergius I
Papacy
687–701
Wu Zetian
China
690–705
Pope Constantine
Papacy
708–715
Pope John VII
Papacy
705–707
Emperor Monmu
Japan
697–707
Emperor Tenmu
Japan
672–686
Pope Conon
Papacy
686–687
Pope John V
Papacy
685–686
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 Justinian II
Hand-picked histories and biographies for readers who want more than the timeline: the same era, told in full.
SPQR: A History of Ancient Rome
Mary Beard
Beard's acclaimed introduction to Roman politics and emperors, readable and wide-ranging.
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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
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