Historical Events tagged with "coup"
Turns out history loves a label—battles, breakthroughs, and the occasional disaster, all neatly tagged for your browsing pleasure. Because sometimes you just need every weird invention in one place.
Coup d'état Against Soga no Iruka
Prince Naka-no-Ōe and Fujiwara no Kamatari led a coup against Soga no Iruka, assassinating him in the imperial palace. This resulted in the fall of the powerful Soga clan, which had significant influence over the Yamato court. The coup marked a pivotal moment in Japanese politics, signaling a shift in power towards the Fujiwara clan and establishing a path for future reforms in government structure.
Continue ReadingOverthrow of Khosrow II, Last Sasanian Shah
Khosrow II, the last Sasanian king of Iran, was overthrown in a coup led by his own son, Kavad II. After a series of defeats and growing discontent among the nobility and military, Khosrow II's reign had faced increasing challenges. This power struggle culminated when Kavad II took decisive action in 628, resulting in the seizure of power and the eventual execution of Khosrow II. The event marked the end of an era for the Sasanian Empire and set the stage for further instability in the region.
Continue ReadingHeraclius Seizes Power in Constantinople
Heraclius, a general from Africa, ultimately came to Constantinople with the intent of overthrowing the unpopular Byzantine Emperor Phocas. With support from the people and military, he led a successful coup, resulting in the assassination of Phocas. Heraclius was proclaimed emperor amidst the populace’s discontent with the previous ruler’s heavy-handed policies. This transition marked a significant shift in Byzantine leadership.
Continue ReadingMaurice's Sons Executed by Usurper Phocas
Phocas, the usurper, violently overthrew Emperor Maurice, seizing power amidst a brutal coup. On this day, Maurice was forced to witness the execution of his five sons, a grim display of power aimed at breaking his spirit. Following this horrific act, Phocas beheaded Maurice, solidifying his claim to the imperial throne. This brutal transfer of power in Constantinople marked a significant turning point in Byzantine history.
Continue ReadingOverthrow of Hormizd IV by Vistahm and Vinduyih
Hormizd IV, the king of the Sasanian Empire, was overthrown and blinded by his brothers-in-law, Vistahm and Vinduyih. This coup was part of a larger power struggle within the empire, driven by dissatisfaction with Hormizd's rule and the desire for greater authority by influential noble families. The event had roots in the internal conflicts of the Sasanian dynasty, which was characterized by strife and competition among nobles for control.
Continue ReadingMurder of Emperor Elagabalus and His Mother
Roman Emperor Elagabalus and his mother, Julia Soaemias, were murdered in a violent coup led by the Roman military. This power struggle was sparked by dissatisfaction with Elagabalus's controversial rule, which included religious and cultural practices that clashed with traditional Roman values. Following their deaths, Elagabalus's cousin, Severus Alexander, a mere 14 years old, was elevated to the position of emperor amid hopes for stability and reform in the empire. The events unfolded in Rome, showcasing the fragility of imperial power in a time of political turbulence.
Continue Reading