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.
Justinian I
Rome
555–562
Emperor Kinmei
Japan
555–562
Pope Pelagius I
Papacy
556–561
Emperor Wenxuan of Northern Qi
China
555–559
Emperor Wen of Chen
China
559–562
Xiao Zhuang
China
557–560
Emperor Ming of Northern Zhou
China
557–560
Emperor Wu of Chen
China
557–559
Emperor Wu of Northern Zhou
China
560–562
Emperor Gong of Western Wei
China
555–557
Emperor Jing of Liang
China
555–557
Emperor Xiaozhao of Northern Qi
China
560–561
Xiao Yuanming
China
555–555
Emperor Fei of Northern Qi
China
559–560
Emperor Xiaomin of Northern Zhou
China
557–557
Pope Vigilius
Papacy
555–555
Pope John III
Papacy
561–562
Meanwhile in history
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.