457 The Theodosian dynasty comes to an end with Marcian. The choice of the emperor rests with the army, and the general Aspar brings about the election of Leo I, a native of Thrace.
465 Great fire at Constantinople.
468 With the co-operation of Anthemius, Leo plans a great expedition against Genseric in Africa, but it fails through treachery of Aspar, who is executed, 469.
474 Leo I dies, leaving empire to his grandson Leo II. The latter dies the same year and Zeno, his father, reigns, but Basiliscus at once drives him out and rules for twenty months, when Zeno recovers the throne.
476 With the resignation of Romulus Augustulus the western division is definitely detached from the empire.
478-481 The Ostrogoths invade the Balkan peninsula.
483 Promulgation of the Henoticon.
488 Zeno induces Theodoric and the Ostrogoths to leave Illyricum and attack Rome.
491 At death of Zeno, Anastasius I is proclaimed emperor, through influence of the empress Ariadne, who marries him.
491-496 The Isaurian War instigated by the supporters of Longinus results favourably for Anastasius.