
Recommended read
Byzantium: The Surprising Life of a Medieval Empire
Judith Herrin
Leo I and the shifting politics of fifth-century Constantinople.

The most notable rulers who held power elsewhere at the same time, from European courts to Ottoman, Mughal, and Chinese thrones.

Childeric I
France
458–481

Verina
Rome
457–474

Emperor Yūryaku
Japan
457–479

Merovech
France
450–458

Emperor Wencheng of Northern Wei
China
452–465

Emperor Xiaowu of Liu Song
China
453–464

Pope Hilarius
Papacy
461–468

Pope Simplicius
Papacy
468–483
Emperor Xianwen of Northern Wei
China
465–471
Emperor Ming of Liu Song
China
466–472

Pope Leo I
Papacy
440–461

Emperor Xiaowen of Northern Wei
China
471–499

Latter Deposed Emperor of Liu Song
China
472–477

Liu Ziye
China
464–466
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
Hand-picked histories and biographies for readers who want more than the timeline: the same era, told in full.

Recommended read
Judith Herrin
Leo I and the shifting politics of fifth-century Constantinople.

Mary Beard
Beard's acclaimed introduction to Roman politics and emperors, readable and wide-ranging.
Find on Amazon
John Julius Norwich
A narrative survey of the Eastern Roman emperors from Constantine to the fall of Constantinople.
Find on AmazonSome book links on this site point to Amazon. As an Amazon Associate, WhoWasRuling.com may earn from qualifying purchases.