An exciting and vibrant account of the history of one of the founding civilizations of the modern world, the Byzantine Empire, narrated through the lives of its 92 emperors. Based in the great city of Constantinople (today's Istanbul), the Byzantine Empire was one of the most successful states of the Middle Ages. As a continuation of the Roman Empire, it ruled over an extensive area stretching from Europe to Western Asia from the fourth to the fifteenth century. However, its history remains largely unknown. This chronology by Byzantine history specialist, Kevin Lygo, brings this magnificent and turbulent period to life through the lives of its emperors: Their role included being head of state, supreme commander, and representative of God on earth. These leaders, including well-known figures such as Constantine the Great and Justinian I, as well as several remarkable women like Irene of Athens and Zoë Porphyrogenita, combined both fierce conquerors and exceptional intellectuals. They all left their mark on the modern world with the establishment of the Eastern Orthodox Christian faith, the creation of a visual standard for Christian art, and the stunning monuments that include the Hagia Sophia cathedral, the mosaics of Ravenna, and the architectural marvel of Mount Athos. Throughout, Lygo paints vivid portraits of the entire Byzantine cast, with stories of political survival, religious devotion, sexual intrigue, and artistic genius. This is a human-centered depiction of more than ninety individuals of power, whose rule profoundly impacted the lives of millions.