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Absolute Monarchs: A History of the Papacy
John Julius Norwich
Norwich's narrative history of the popes, from Saint Peter's successors to the modern Vatican.
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.
James VI and I
England
1603–1625
Ahmed I
Ottoman Empire
1603–1617
Akbar
Mughal Empire
1556–1605
Henry IV of France
France
1589–1610
Wanli Emperor
China
1572–1620
Philip III of Spain
Spain
1598–1621
Rudolf II, Holy Roman Emperor
Holy Roman Empire
1576–1612
James VI and I
Scotland
1587–1625
Emperor Go-Yōzei
Japan
1586–1611
Philip III of Spain
Portugal
1598–1621
Charles IX of Sweden
Sweden
1604–1611
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 Pope Leo XI
Hand-picked histories and biographies for readers who want more than the timeline: the same era, told in full.
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