Throughout history, there have been some truly nefarious rulers who have left their mark on the world. From tyrants, to despots, to warmongers, these kings were some of the most reviled, feared, and loathed rulers in history. Here are some of the most evil kings in history, who have become notorious for their cruelty, ambition, and tyranny.
Emperor Hirohito
Emperor Hirohito was a powerful and ruthless ruler who dominated Japan during World War II. He was a stern leader who was determined to expand Japan’s territories and to build a powerful empire. He sanctioned the attack on Pearl Harbor and pushed the country into an aggressive war. The Emperor signed the Instrument of Surrender in 1945 and was held responsible for all war crimes committed under his rule. He was a cruel and oppressive leader who was known to execute political opponents without trial.
King Louis XIV
King Louis XIV was a notorious French ruler who earned the nickname “The Sun King” for his lavish lifestyle and opulent court. He is remembered for his absolutist approach to government and his war-mongering foreign policy. During his reign, Louis XIV laid claim to numerous territories and fought in multiple wars, leading to France becoming one of Europe’s most powerful nations. He also passed a number of laws that restricted the rights of religious minorities and imposed heavy taxes on the French population. His reign was marked by an economic downturn, a period of famine, and an overall decline in standards of living.
King Herod
King Herod was one of the most notorious evil kings in history. He was born in 73 BCE and rose to power in 40 BCE, becoming ruler of Judea. He had a reputation for ruthlessness and cruelty, ordering the execution of many of his political opponents. Herod also ordered the massacre of all the baby boys in Bethlehem, in an attempt to kill the newborn Jesus. He was known to have a violent temper, and would often order executions on a whim. Herod was also known to have had numerous affairs, and to have had several children out of wedlock.
Attila the Hun
Attila the Hun was one of the most notorious evil kings in history. He was the leader of the Huns, a nomadic people from Central Asia who terrorized Europe in the 5th century. He was known for his brutality, cruelty, and ambition, and he was feared by both his own people and those who opposed him. Attila’s military campaigns were ruthless and he was determined to conquer whatever lands he laid his eyes upon. He plundered cities and towns, burned villages, and destroyed sacred sites.
King Leopold II
King Leopold II was one of the most notorious and cruel rulers of all time. He was the King of Belgium from 1865 to 1909 and during that time he was responsible for the death of millions of people in the Congo Free State. He was determined to exploit the area for its natural resources such as rubber, ivory, and minerals and to do so, he created a system of forced labor which led to the deaths of many Congolese people.
Genghis Khan
Genghis Khan was one of the most ruthless and feared evil kings in history. He was a Mongolian leader who rose to power in the early 13th century. He subjugated numerous nations and tribes, forming the Mongol Empire, one of the largest empires in history. Genghis Khan was known for his fierce military campaigns and harsh rule. He would execute large numbers of people and was not afraid to use terror tactics to maintain his rule. He was also known for his innovative military strategies, which brought him great success in battle.
Caligula
Caligula was one of the most notorious evil kings in history. He was born in 12 AD and was known for his cruel and dictatorial rule. He was the third emperor of the Roman Empire and was known for his extreme extravagance and debauchery. Caligula was known for his bizarre and bloody acts of cruelty, including ordering that his horse be made a consul and having prisoners executed for his own amusement. He also increased taxes and greatly expanded Rome’s military. Caligula was considered to be an insane dictator and was eventually assassinated by his own guards in 41 AD.
