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

Mary I
England
1553–1558

Suleiman the Magnificent
Ottoman Empire
1520–1566

Humayun
Mughal Empire
1531–1540; 1555–1556

Henry II of France
France
1547–1559

Jiajing Emperor of Ming
China
1521–1567

Charles V
Spain
1516–1556

Charles V
Holy Roman Empire
1519–1556

Mary, Queen of Scots
Scotland
1542–1567

Emperor Go-Nara
Japan
1526–1557

Ashikaga Yoshiteru
Japan (Shogunate)
1547–1565

John III of Portugal
Portugal
1521–1557

Gustav I of Sweden
Sweden
1523–1560
One “meanwhile in history” story each week: who ruled where, and what was happening on thrones across the world.
By subscribing you agree to receive emails from us. See our Privacy Policy. Unsubscribe any time.
From the library
Hand-picked histories and biographies for readers who want more than the timeline: the same era, told in full.

Recommended read
John Julius Norwich
Norwich's narrative history of the popes, from Saint Peter's successors to the modern Vatican.
Some book links on this site point to Amazon. As an Amazon Associate, WhoWasRuling.com may earn from qualifying purchases.