The Good Monarchs: History's Greatest Kings, Queens, Emperors, Sultans and Caliphs

The Good Monarchs tells the history of 18 of the best kings, queens, emperors, sultans and caliphs in history. The book starts with King Josiah of Judah in 641 BCE, who rescued monotheism from a likely demise. Cyrus the Great of Persia was one of the world's greatest conquerors, but he was most known for his mercy and just rule that turned former enemies into loyal subjects. Ashoka, Emperor of the Mauryan Empire in the 3rd century BCE renounced war in favor of moral persuasion. In the first century BCE Queen Salome Alexandria of Judea introduced universal literacy among her subjects. Chapter 5 tells of Tang Taizong, the best emperor in Chinese history. Umar II was called the " last righteous caliph", setting an example for the Moslem world that would not be matched. Chapter 7 tells of Jayavarman VII, ruler of Cambodia's Khmer empire at its height. Emperor Mansa Musa of Mali ruled a nation the size of all of western Europe and renowned for its wealth and learning. In the 14th century CE Poland's greatest ruler, Casmir the Great is the subject of Chapter 9. Casmir's story is followed by that of Suleiman the Magnficent of the Ottoman Empire. Queen Elizabeth I of England presided over England's Golden Age. At a time when the Inquisition was a hallmark of Europe, the Emperor Akbar in India ruled over a Mogul Empire known for its religious tolerance. Henri IV of France, another 16th century monarch, was the best king France ever had. The Emperor Kangxi in 17th-18th century China was another excellent monarch, renowned for his interest in just about everything. For most of the 19th century Brazil was an empire, ruled over by the benevolent Pedro II. The last 3 chapters center on 3 constitutional monarchs who far exceeded anyone's expectations. Albert of Belgium saved his nation in World War One. King Juan Carlos of Spain skillfully led his nation in a peaceful transition from a fascist dictatorship into a thriving democracy. Bhumibol Adulyadej was beloved by the Thai people during his long rule for his unceasing efforts on their behalf. The book closes with a discussion of the strengths and weaknesses of monarchy versus other forms of government. The final chapter also looks at what factors contribute to the best rule and rulers.