Justin II

AncientEmperorByzantine Empire-520 — ?

Nephew of Justinian who went mad.

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Quick Facts

Born

520 BCE

Country

Byzantine Empire

Era

Ancient

Occupation

Emperor

Score Overview

Military (10%)50

Political (20%)28

Influence (20%)42

Legacy (20%)34

Leadership (15%)38

Strategy (15%)40

Total Score37.8

Justin II — Complete Timeline

572 AD

Began war with the Sassanid EmpireWar◆ Major

Justin II, seeking to restore Roman prestige, refused to pay the annual tribute to the Sassanid Persians and initiated a war. The conflict initially went poorly for the Byzantines, leading to the loss of the fortress of Dara and a heavy defeat.

Roman-Persian WarsMilitary CampaignByzantine Empire

Impact: regionaldestructive

574 AD

Suffered a mental breakdownOther◆ Major

Overwhelmed by military defeats and the loss of Dara, Justin II suffered a period of insanity. He became incapable of ruling, leading to the appointment of Tiberius II as Caesar and regent.

Mental HealthSuccession CrisisByzantine Empire

Impact: nationaltragic

Adopted Tiberius as his son and heirPolitical Action◆ Major

In a moment of lucidity, Justin II formally adopted Tiberius, the commander of the excubitors, as his son and appointed him Caesar. This act ensured a stable transition of power and placed a capable ruler in charge of the empire.

SuccessionByzantine EmpireTiberius II

Impact: nationalconstructive