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.
James I of Aragon
Spain
1213–1276
Prince Munetaka
Japan (Shogunate)
1252–1266
Afonso III of Portugal
Portugal
1248–1279
Louis IX of France
France
1226–1270
Henry III of England
England
1216–1272
Emperor Lizong of Song
China
1224–1264
Alexander III of Scotland
Scotland
1249–1286
Emperor Go-Fukakusa
Japan
1246–1260
Pope Alexander IV
Papacy
1254–1261
Valdemar, King of Sweden
Sweden
1250–1275
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 Theodore II Laskaris
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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