Justinian I

Full Name: Flavius Petrus Sabbatius Iustinianus Augustus
Profession: Eastern Roman Emperor

Nationality:

Biography: Justinian I ruled the Byzantine Empire from 527 to 565 CE, during which time he transformed the empire through military conquests, legal reforms, and architectural projects.

Justinian came from humble origins in Illyria. His uncle, Justin I, adopted and educated him. When Justin became emperor, Justinian gained influence at court. He subsequently married Theodora, a former actress, in 525.

Upon becoming emperor, Justinian launched campaigns to reclaim former Roman territories. His general Belisarius conquered North Africa from the Vandals and parts of Italy from the Ostrogoths. These wars expanded Byzantine control but drained the treasury.

Justinian's most lasting achievement was the creation of the Corpus Juris Civilis. This collection of Roman laws became the basis for many modern legal systems. He also built extensively, including the grand Hagia Sophia church in Constantinople.

During his reign, Justinian faced several crises. The Nika riots in 532, for instance, nearly toppled his rule. A devastating plague further struck in 541, killing millions. Justinian himself contracted the disease but survived.

Justinian made significant efforts to unify Christianity but these often led to only more conflict. He also closed the philosophy schools in Athens and persecuted non-Christians, with these religious policies creating tension in the empire.

Ultimately he died in 565, having ruled for 38 years. Despite failing to unify Christianity, his legal code, architectural works, and territorial gains shaped the Byzantine Empire for centuries.

Birthplace: Tauresium

Died: November 15, 565