20 Most Controversial Monarchs in History
A curated list of 20 monarchs whose reigns were marked by controversy, scandal, and intrigue.
- Daisy Montero
- 5 min read
Throughout history, monarchs have wielded immense power, often leading to decisions and actions that sparked controversy and debate. This list explores 20 such rulers whose reigns were characterized by scandal, tyranny, or eccentricity. Their stories serve as cautionary tales and fascinating studies of leadership.
1. Ivan the Terrible (Russia)
Anonymous Russian painter (1670s-1917) on Wikimedia Commons
Ivan IV, known as Ivan the Terrible, was the first Tsar of Russia. His reign was marked by violent purges, including the establishment of the Oprichnina, and the tragic killing of his own son. His actions left a legacy of fear and centralized autocracy.
2. Caligula (Roman Empire)
J. Paul Getty Museum on Wikimedia Commons
Caligula’s short reign was infamous for its extravagance and alleged madness. From declaring himself a god to purportedly appointing his horse as a consul, his rule epitomized the dangers of absolute power.
3. King John (England)
British – School on Wikimedia Commons
King John’s reign saw the loss of English territories in France and conflicts with the nobility, leading to the sealing of the Magna Carta. His heavy taxation and disputes with the Church made him one of England’s most unpopular monarchs.
4. Nicholas II (Russia)
A. A. Pasetti on Wikimedia Commons
The last Tsar of Russia, Nicholas II’s reign ended with the Bolshevik Revolution. His inability to address political unrest and his association with Rasputin eroded public trust, culminating in the fall of the Romanov dynasty.
5. Marie Antoinette (France)
Élisabeth Louise Vigée Le Brun on Wikimedia Commons
Queen Marie Antoinette became a symbol of royal excess in pre-revolutionary France. Her lavish lifestyle and perceived indifference to the plight of the poor fueled revolutionary sentiments, leading to her execution.
6. Leopold II (Belgium)
London Stereoscopic and Photographic Company on Wikimedia Commons
Leopold II personally owned the Congo Free State, where his regime was responsible for atrocities and exploitation. International outcry eventually forced the Belgian government to take control, but his legacy remains tarnished.
7. Nero (Roman Empire)
shakko on Wikimedia Commons
Nero’s rule is often associated with tyranny and extravagance. Accused of starting the Great Fire of Rome and persecuting Christians, his reign ended in rebellion and his suicide.
8. Ranavalona I (Madagascar)
Philippe-Auguste Ramanankirahina (1860-1915) on Wikimedia Commons
Known for her isolationist policies, Queen Ranavalona I resisted European influence and Christianity. Her reign was marked by brutal purges and forced labor, leading to significant population decline.
9. Rudolf II (Holy Roman Empire)
Unknown author on Wikimedia Commons
Emperor Rudolf II was known for his patronage of the arts and sciences but also for his eccentric behavior and neglect of state affairs. His erratic rule contributed to political instability in the empire.
10. Edward VIII (United Kingdom)
Vandyk (active 1881-1947) on Wikimedia Commons
Edward VIII abdicated the throne to marry Wallis Simpson, a twice-divorced American, causing a constitutional crisis. His actions challenged traditional royal expectations and altered the line of succession.
11. Henry VIII (England)
Royaltynow on Wikimedia Commons
Famous for his six marriages and the English Reformation, Henry VIII’s desire for a male heir led to significant religious and political upheaval. His reign drastically changed England’s religious landscape.
12. Emperor Meiji (Japan)
Takagi Haisui on Wikimedia Commons
Emperor Meiji led Japan through a rapid modernization, but the shift from feudalism caused deep unrest. His reign saw violent suppression of dissent and social upheaval. His rule changed Japan forever but not without controversy.
13. Qin Shi Huang (China)
Tris T7 on Wikimedia Commons
China’s first emperor unified the warring states but ruled through fear and harsh punishments. He burned books, buried scholars alive, and forced massive construction projects. His legacy is a mix of brilliance and brutality.
14. Louis XIV (France)
anonymous on Wikimedia Commons
The Sun King ruled France for over 70 years, turning it into a dominant power. His extravagance and endless wars drained the treasury. His legacy is one of splendor and suffering for the common people.
15. Haile Selassie (Ethiopia)
Ethiopian government on Wikimedia Commons
Hailed as a reformer and later worshipped by Rastafarians, Selassie’s rule was also marked by famine and repression. His detachment from widespread poverty fueled a coup. His fall ended centuries of monarchy in Ethiopia.
16. Aurangzeb (Mughal Empire)
anonymous on Wikimedia Commons
Aurangzeb expanded the Mughal Empire to its greatest extent, but his orthodox rule alienated non-Muslims. His religious intolerance sparked rebellions and fractured unity. His reign marked both a peak and the start of decline.
17. Jahangir (Mughal Empire)
Portrait of Jahangir on Wikimedia Commons
Known for opulence and art patronage, Jahangir’s court was also plagued by intrigue and addiction. His reliance on his powerful wife, Nur Jahan, stirred criticism. His legacy is as complex as his rule.
18. Christian VII (Denmark)
Jens Juel on Wikimedia Commons
Christian VII’s mental illness left his court vulnerable to manipulation. His physician gained enormous power, causing political chaos. His reign was a bizarre mix of reform, scandal, and instability.
19. Ludwig II (Bavaria)
Luise von Kobell on Wikimedia Commons
Ludwig II built extravagant castles and withdrew from politics, earning him the nickname “Mad King.” His obsession with fantasy strained the treasury, and his mysterious death only deepened the legend.
20. Kim Jong-un (North Korea)
Alexei Nikolsky on Wikimedia Commons
As North Korea’s hereditary ruler, Kim Jong-un continues policies of isolation and authoritarian control. His regime is known for nuclear brinkmanship, purges, and strict censorship. His rule remains one of the world’s most secretive.