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.
Anund Jacob
Sweden
1022–1050
Henry I of France
France
1031–1060
Harthacnut
England
1040–1042
Emperor Renzong of Song
China
1022–1063
Macbeth, King of Scotland
Scotland
1040–1057
Emperor Go-Suzaku
Japan
1036–1045
Edward the Confessor
England
1042–1066
Pope Benedict IX
Papacy
1032–1044; 1045–1045; 1047–1048
Zoe Porphyrogenita
Rome
1042–1055
Emperor Xingzong of Liao
China
1031–1055
Macbeth
Scotland
1040–1057
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 Michael V Kalaphates
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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