ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Speculative Discussion on Modern Candidates for Roman Emperor Succession

opinion-review · 2026-03-19

A hypothetical debate explores who might rule a still-existing Roman Empire today, featuring various historical claimants. The discussion originated from a viral social media thread about King Felipe VI of Spain's sartorial elegance during Wimbledon, which sparked commentary on his imperial bearing. Matt Baker of UsefulCharts organized a voting session with thirteen history-focused YouTube creators to evaluate candidates. Potential modern claimants include King Felipe VI, Dündar Ali Osman (Ottoman heir), Andrew Romanov (Russian heir, though deceased), Jean-Christophe Napoléon (Bonaparte descendant), and Karl von Habsburg (Habsburg house head). The conversation blends historical legitimacy arguments with cultural and stylistic considerations.

Key facts

  • King Felipe VI of Spain was highlighted in a viral social media thread for his tailored appearance at Wimbledon.
  • Matt Baker of UsefulCharts gathered thirteen history YouTubers to vote on modern Roman emperor candidates.
  • Candidates include monarchs and heirs from Spanish, Ottoman, Russian, Napoleonic, and Habsburg lineages.
  • The discussion is speculative, examining political, cultural, and sartorial factors in imperial succession claims.
  • Some candidates like Andrew Romanov and Dündar Ali Osman have died since the video was produced.

Entities

Institutions

  • UsefulCharts

Locations

  • Spain
  • Seoul

Sources