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.
Emperor Ingyō
Japan
412–453
Aelia Eudocia
Rome
421–450
Emperor Wen of Liu Song
China
424–453
Emperor An of Jin
China
396–419
Emperor Mingyuan of Northern Wei
China
409–423
Emperor Taiwu of Northern Wei
China
423–452
Emperor Daowu of Northern Wei
China
399–409
Helian Bobo
China
407–425
Pope Innocent I
Papacy
402–417
Arcadius
Rome
395–408
Pope Celestine I
Papacy
422–432
Pope Leo I
Papacy
440–461
Pope Sixtus III
Papacy
432–440
Emperor Hanzei
Japan
406–411
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 Theodosius II
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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