empress theodora

death

548 BCE

Theodora likely died from cancer and is now remembered as the most powerful woman in Byzantine history.

Became Ruler By Herself

542 BCE

Emperor Justinian I gave Empress Theodora full power to rule on his behalf. It was during this time the Empress carried out many of her devious plans to consolidate her power, just in case Emperor Justinian didn’t recover from the plague.

Nika Revolt

532 BCE

Conflict between two political/ religious groups broke out between the Blues and the Greens This revolt destroyed much of Constantinople. many saw this as a chance to overthrow Justinian who wished to flee. Instead, Theodora spoke out wanting to die a ruler than be removed from power she prompted Justinian to send troops to calm the rebels. After quelling the revolt Theodora and Justinian confronted the destruction of important monuments in Constantinople including the original Hagia Sophia.

her rule

Period: 527 BCE to 548 BCE

she is remembered as one of the first rulers to recognize rights of women (early feminist). As empress, she made a house where prostitutes could live in peace, worked for women’s marriage rights, advocate for anti-rape laws, and supported young girls who were sold into sexual slavery. Her laws rid brothel keepers from all major cities in empire. She expanded the rights of women in divorce and property ownership, banned forced prostitution, and gave women guardianship rights over their children.

Married

525 BCE

Justinian had this law repealed for Theodore the following year, and the two were married. she was 20 years younger than Justinian I, what this meant was that Empress Theodora was not a consort, but rather an equal to her husband, per the instruction given by the latter.

Meets Justinian I

522 BCE

Theodora met Justinian I, at that time he was heir to the throne. Justinian wanted to wed immediately, but as heir, he was forbidden to marry an actress

Born

497 BCE

she was born into the lowest classes of Byzantine society