
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.

Justinian I
Rome
527–565

Emperor Kinmei
Japan
539–571

Emperor Wu of Liang
China
502–549
Emperor Wen of Western Wei
China
535–551

Theodora
Rome
527–548
Emperor Xiaojing of Eastern Wei
China
534–550

Emperor Wenxuan of Northern Qi
China
550–559

Emperor Yuan of Liang
China
552–555
Emperor Fei of Western Wei
China
551–554

Emperor Senka
Japan
536–539
Emperor Jianwen of Liang
China
549–551
Emperor Gong of Western Wei
China
554–557
Xiao Ji
China
552–553
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.