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

The Good Monarchs tells the stories of 18 of the best kings, queens, emperors, sultans and caliphs in history. These are the rulers who most tried to help the people they ruled. The book looks at what made them good and analyses the strengths and flaws of monarchy.

The story begins in 641 BCE with King Josiah of Judah who ushered in crucial religious reforms, followed by Cyrus the Great of Persia, the world's greatest and most merciful conqueror. Emperor Ashoka of India emphasized non-violence while Queen Salome Alexandra of Judea brought universal literacy among her people. Tang Taizong is considered the best Chinese emperor. Umar II, the last rightous caliph was considered almost a saint by Moslem and Christian alike. Jayavarman VII bought Cambodian civilization to its peak while Mansa Musa of Mali amazed the world with his generosity. Casmir the Great of Poland and Suleiman the Magnificent of the Ottoman Empire were their countries greatest leaders. Elizabeth I of England was the match of a dozen kings. Emperor Akbar of the Moghul Empire tried to create harmony between Hindu and Moslem. Henri IV was France's most beloved king. Kanxi brought Manchu and Chinese together to help create a great empire. Emperor Pedro II of Brazil was the longest ruling leader in Latin America. King Albert of Belgium was called the best constituional monarch ever. King Juan Carlos led Spain's peaceful transition from dictatorship to democracy. Finally, King Bhumibol of thailand exemplified the ideal Buddhist king.

The Good Monarchs chronicles the stories of these rulers, some well known and many almost forgotten outside their nations. The book also looks at the strengths and weaknesses of monarchy as a form of government.