10 Rulers Betrayed by Their Advisors and 10 Saved by Them

While Marcus Brutus is often remembered for his role in Caesar’s assassination, Decimus was one of the dictator’s most loyal advisors and military commanders. On the Ides of March in 44 B.C., Decimus convinced Caesar to attend the Senate session despite warnings urging him not to go. His involvement was crucial to the success of the conspiracy. 

During his reign, Richard II relied heavily on his court favorites and loyal nobles. When Henry Bolingbroke returned from exile in 1399, several advisors and nobles abandoned Richard rather than defend him. This shift in their loyalty left the king politically isolated. 

Othman II attempted to reform the Ottoman army after becoming disillusioned with the Janissaries. Several high-ranking officials and military leaders secretly opposed his plans and encouraged resistance. Their actions contributed to a revolt that led to the capture and murder of the young sultan in 1622. 

Emperor Yang of China’s Sui Dynasty became increasingly dependent on officials who told him only what he wanted to hear. Instead of providing him with honest assessments of the growing unrest, many of them concealed the severity of the rebellions that were shaking the empire. As the situation worsened, the dynasty’s position rapidly deteriorated. 

During Alexander the Great’s conquest of Persia, Darius III relied on his regional governors to help him defend his empire. After a series of defeats, the satrap Bessus turned against him. Bessus had Darius arrested and then executed while he was attempting to seize power. This betrayal marked the effective end of Achaemenid resistance.

The reign of Edward II was marked by political divisions and opposition from the nobility. As his position weakened, several advisors and allies chose to ensure their own survival rather than remain loyal to the king. Their willingness to support Queen Isabella and Roger Mortimer left the king vulnerable. Edward was finally deposed in 1327.

Aurelian was one of Rome’s most capable emperors and had restored stability to the empire. However, a secretary named Eros feared he would be punished for falsifying documents. To save himself, he fabricated evidence suggesting that the emperor intended to execute several officers. 

Although the Safavid Empire remained powerful for much of Abbas II’s reign, the corruption that prevailed among court officials undermined the government’s effectiveness. These officials often sought to serve their own personal interests rather than those of the state. 

Li Linfu was a highly influential chancellor during the Tang Dynasty. He worked to eliminate his rivals and often concealed problems from Emperor Xuanzong. By discouraging any sincere criticism within the government, he contributed to the weakening of the administration. 

Rasputin never officially held a high-ranking position, but he became an influential advisor at the imperial court. Many government officials viewed his influence as harmful and detrimental to public confidence in the monarchy. 

William Cecil, who later became Lord Burghley, was Elizabeth I’s chief advisor for most of her reign. He provided her with sound advice on diplomacy, religion, and national security. Thanks to his wise counsel, England was able to avoid many political dangers. 

Chanakya was a scholar and strategist who helped Chandragupta build the Maurya Empire in ancient India. He contributed his expertise in military, political, and administrative matters throughout the ruler’s rise to power. His advice helped consolidate the foundations of the new state. 

Wei Zheng became known for his willingness to criticize the emperor when necessary. Far from punishing him, Taizong appreciated his honesty. This relationship enabled the emperor to avoid costly mistakes and improve his governance. 

During World War II, King George VI worked closely with Prime Minister Winston Churchill. Churchill’s leadership helped Britain weather one of the most perilous periods in its history. His strategic vision and determination bolstered the nation’s morale. 

Honda Tadakatsu was one of Tokugawa Ieyasu’s most loyal and capable vassals. He demonstrated his skills as a military leader during numerous campaigns waged throughout Japan’s tumultuous Sengoku period. 

At the beginning of Kangxi’s reign, powerful regents threatened imperial authority. Songgotu played a major role in helping the young emperor depose the regent Oboi. This strengthened Kangxi’s grip on the Qing government. 

When Viking invasions threatened Wessex, Alfred relied heavily on his nobles and trusted military leaders. Their unwavering support enabled him to rebuild his forces after severe setbacks. Together, they won significant victories, most notably at the Battle of Edington. 

Raja Todar Mal was one of Akbar’s most talented administrators. He implemented tax reforms that improved tax collection and strengthened imperial finances. These changes enhanced stability throughout the Mughal Empire. 

Cardinal Richelieu was Louis XIII’s chief minister and significantly strengthened royal authority. He weakened the rebellious nobles and reduced the threats to the centralized government. His policies helped strengthen France both domestically and internationally. 

Lincoln deliberately assembled his cabinet from seasoned political rivals and respected leaders. Advisors such as William H. Seward often challenged his assumptions and offered him alternative perspectives.