Royalty – Like Her

Empress Jingū

Empress Jingū (神功皇后, Jingū-kōgō) was a legendary Japanese empress who ruled as a regent following her husband’s death in 200 AD. Her influence on Japanese history is significant, even though her reign is shrouded in legend and myth. Jingū sought revenge on her husband’s murderers and allegedly invaded the Korean Peninsula. She gave birth to a son, Homutawake, three years after her husband’s death. Her reign as a regent demonstrated the power and influence women could have in a male-dominated society.

IndiaActivistMilitary

Kittur Chennamma

Kittur Chennamma, an Indian Queen of Kittur, valiantly fought against British colonization. Born in 1778, she faced tragedy when her husband and son passed away. Chennamma’s decision to adopt an heir and resist British control led to a war with the East India Company. Although she initially emerged victorious, the British eventually annexed Kittur and took Chennamma prisoner. She died as a prisoner of war, but her courageous spirit and dedication to her people made her a revered figure in women’s history and the Indian independence movement.

IndiaRoyaltyWarrior

Mangammal

Rani Mangammal, the queen regent of the Madurai Nayak kingdom, was known for her exceptional administrative skills and contributions to infrastructure development and public welfare. She took up the responsibility of ruling as regent after the tragic deaths of her husband and son, focusing on public works projects and displaying remarkable diplomatic and political acumen. Despite her accomplishments, she was captured and executed when her grandson came of age. Mangammal’s reign symbolizes the impact powerful women can have on society.

WalesMilitaryRoyalty

Gwenllian ferch Gruffydd

Gwenllian ferch Gruffydd was a Welsh princess and the Princess Consort of Deheubarth in Wales. Known for her fierce determination, she played a significant role in the Great Revolt of 1136, leading her own troops into battle against Norman invaders. Sadly, her rebellion ultimately led to her tragic death, but her legacy as a symbol of resistance in Welsh history inspired others to continue the fight for independence.

ChinaMilitaryRoyalty

Princess Pingyang

Princess Pingyang, the daughter of Emperor Gaozu, played a key role in her father’s rise to power and became the first female general of the Tang dynasty. She showed exceptional bravery and strategic prowess, gathering an army of 70,000 men, and ultimately helped establish the Tang dynasty. Despite her untimely death in 623, Princess Pingyang’s legacy endured and she remains an iconic figure in Chinese history.

ScotlandUnited KingdomRoyalty

Catherine, Princess of Wales

Catherine, Princess of Wales, is a highly esteemed member of the British royal family. She married Prince William, the heir apparent to the British throne, in 2011. Catherine is known for her charitable work, dedication to mental health awareness, and influence in the world of fashion. Her story will continue to inspire generations to come.

Great BritainRoyaltyWriter

Sarah, Duchess of York

Sarah, Duchess of York, also known as Fergie, is a British author, television personality, and member of the British royal family. She was born on October 15, 1959, in London. Sarah’s dedication to philanthropy and her resilience in the face of personal challenges have made her an influential figure in society.

South KoreaRoyalty

Queen Seondeok of Silla

Queen Seondeok of Silla reigned as Queen Regnant of Silla, one of the Three Kingdoms of Korea, from 632 to 647. She was renowned for her exceptional leadership, intelligence, and contribution to the arts and culture of Silla. Queen Seondeok’s reign marked a pivotal moment in women’s history, shattering gender norms and expanding the possibilities for women in positions of power.

IranActivistRoyalty

Zahra Khanom Tadj es-Saltaneh

Zahra Khanom Tadj es-Saltaneh, also known as Princess Qajar, was a feminist and women’s rights activist from Iran. Through her memoirs, she shed light on the limitations faced by Persian women and challenged the restrictive nature of Qajar society. Zahra Khanom defied societal norms by divorcing her husband, becoming one of the first women in the royal family to do so, and advocating for women’s empowerment in Iran. Her activism and contributions to women’s history continue to inspire generations of women striving for gender equality and social justice.

AlbaniaPirateRoyalty

Teuta

Teuta, the queen regent of the Ardiaei tribe in Illyria, ascended to power after the death of her husband in 231 BC. Continuing his policy of expanding their influence in the Adriatic Sea, she faced conflict with the Roman Republic due to Illyrian piracy. Despite her efforts to defend her kingdom, Teuta ultimately surrendered after losing the First Illyrian War in 228 BC.

TunisiaRoyalty

Dido

Dido, the legendary founder and queen of Carthage, was known for her intelligence and enterprising nature. She transformed a barren land into a thriving city through trade and agriculture, attracting settlers from various regions. Dido’s leadership and vision made Carthage a powerful metropolis in the Mediterranean, although her tragic love affair with Aeneas ultimately led to her downfall. Despite the legends surrounding her, Dido’s influence on the founding of Carthage and her role as a powerful queen is undeniable.

Great BritainRoyalty

Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh

Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, had a successful career in public relations before marrying Prince Edward in 1999. She is a devoted member of the British royal family and actively supports over 70 charities and organizations. Sophie’s ancestral heritage and dedication to her duties make her an integral part of the royal lineage.

ChinaRoyalty

Wu Zetian

Wu Zetian, the first and only female Emperor in Chinese history, was a powerful and influential figure during the Tang dynasty. From her humble beginnings as a concubine, Wu rose to become the de facto ruler, with an authority on par with the emperor himself. During her reign, China experienced significant growth and revitalization, leaving an indelible mark on Chinese history. However, her rule was not without controversy as she faced opposition from conservative factions who deemed her reign illegitimate.

Great BritainRoyalty

Anne, Princess Royal

Anne, Princess Royal, is a well-respected member of the British royal family. Born in 1950, she is the second child and only daughter of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh. Anne has made significant contributions to equestrian sports, becoming the first member of the British royal family to compete in the Olympics. She is also actively involved in charitable endeavors, focusing on causes such as sports, sciences, people with disabilities, and health in developing countries. Princess Anne continues to inspire and make a lasting impact on society.

EnglandRoyalty

Lady Jane Grey

Lady Jane Grey, also known as the “Nine Days’ Queen,” briefly claimed the throne of England and Ireland in 1553. Born into a prominent family, Jane received an exceptional education, making her one of the most learned young women of her time. Despite her short reign and untimely death, Jane’s influence on English history and women’s history is significant.

JordanRoyalty

Rania Al Abdullah

Queen Rania Al Abdullah, born Rania Al-Yassin, is the Queen of Jordan and wife of King Abdullah II. With a strong educational background and professional experience, she has become a prominent advocate for causes such as education, health, community empowerment, and cross-cultural dialogue. Queen Rania’s dedication and commitment to making a positive impact have earned her recognition as one of the world’s most powerful women, and she continues to inspire women around the world.

EgyptRoyalty

Hatshepsut

Hatshepsut, the fifth Pharaoh of the Eighteenth Dynasty of Egypt, reigned from around 1478 or 1479 BC until her death in 1458 BC. She took on the role of pharaoh after initially serving as regent for her stepson, Thutmose III. Hatshepsut adopted male attributes and attire to solidify her position as a ruler, and her reign brought unprecedented prosperity and peace. Her architectural projects, including the famous Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut, showcased her legacy as both a leader and patron of the arts. Despite attempts to erase her from history, Hatshepsut remains an exceptional figure in ancient societies.

IndiaPoliticianRoyalty

Vijaya Raje Scindia

Vijaya Raje Scindia, also known as the Rajmata of Gwalior, was a prominent Indian political figure. As the wife of the Maharaja of Gwalior, she held a high position in the royal family. In her later years, she became a respected politician and was elected multiple times to the Indian parliament. Her contributions to the Bharatiya Janata Party and her fight against injustice left a lasting impact on Indian politics.

JordanRoyalty

Alia Toukan

Alia Toukan, also known as Alia Al-Hussein, was a beloved Queen of Jordan who dedicated her life to social development projects, particularly focused on women and children. Her untimely death in a helicopter crash left a profound impact on the nation, as she was widely known for her genuine care and dedication to improving the lives of others.

RussiaRoyalty

Elizabeth of Russia

Elizabeth or Elizaveta Petrovna, Empress of Russia from 1741 to 1762, is known for her compassionate rule, Progressive policies, and significant contributions to the country. Her reign was characterized by her refusal to execute anyone, extensive construction projects, and opposition to Prussian policies. Elizabeth’s support for education and culture, as well as her architectural projects, left a lasting impact on Russian society. She led Russia through two major European conflicts and remains an iconic figure in history for her commitment to justice and progress.

IranMuslimRoyalty

Tadj ol-Molouk

Tâdj ol-Molouk, the daughter of Brigadier General Teym?r Khan Ayromlou, played a crucial role as Queen during her husband Reza Shah’s reign in Iran. She became the first Queen after the Muslim conquest in the seventh century to participate in public royal representation, paving the way for future queens to actively engage in public life. Her contributions to women’s rights, including the abolition of the veil and increasing women’s participation in society, remain significant in Iranian history.

RussiaRoyalty

Catherine the Great

Catherine the Great, reigning empress of Russia from 1762 to 1796, brought about a cultural and scientific renaissance in Russia under her long and influential reign. Inspired by the Enlightenment, she implemented numerous reforms and oversaw the establishment of schools, hospitals, and orphanages. Her achievements in modernizing Russia, expanding its territories, and promoting the arts made her one of history’s enlightened despots.

ChinaEducatorReligious Leader

Yeshe Tsogyal

Yeshe Tsogyal, known as the “Victorious Ocean of Knowledge,” played a significant role in Tibetan Buddhism. Born into the royal family, she showed a deep interest in spiritual practices from a young age. She became the spiritual consort of Padmasambhava and achieved enlightenment in her lifetime. Yeshe Tsogyal’s teachings emphasized compassion, wisdom, and the cultivation of inner qualities, making her a preeminent figure in Tibetan Buddhism.

EnglandFranceScotland

Mary, Queen of Scots

Mary, Queen of Scots (1542-1587) became Queen of Scotland at just six days old after the death of her father. She married Francis, the Dauphin of France and later returned to Scotland. Mary’s reign was marked by religious and political turmoil, and she faced opposition from influential figures like John Knox. After a tumultuous marriage, imprisonment, and involvement in plots, Mary was executed at Fotheringhay Castle, becoming a martyr for Catholic supporters.

AustriaDisabledReligious Leader

Archduchess Maria Anna of Austria

Archduchess Maria Anna of Austria, despite facing physical disabilities, demonstrated remarkable intelligence and played significant roles in state events throughout her life. As the abbess of the Theresian Institution of Noble Ladies in Prague and later in Klagenfurt, she dedicated herself to education and the well-being of the noble ladies under her care. Her perseverance, resilience, and contributions to science and art make her an inspiring figure in women’s history.

BrazilActivistPolitician

Isabel, Princess Imperial of Brazil

Isabel, Princess Imperial of Brazil, was born in Rio de Janeiro in 1846. As the eldest daughter of Emperor Pedro II, she became her father’s heir presumptive. Known for her intelligence and compassion, Isabel acted as regent during her father’s absences and made significant contributions to governance. Her most notable achievement was the enactment of the Golden Law in 1888, which abolished slavery in Brazil. Despite facing opposition, she remained steadfast in her commitment to justice and equality, earning her the nickname “the Redemptress”.

Great BritainRoyalty

Princess Beatrice

Princess Beatrice, born on August 8, 1988, in London, is the daughter of Prince Andrew, Duke of York, and Sarah, Duchess of York. She grew up in the spotlight of the royal family, accompanied her parents on official engagements, and traveled abroad. Despite being diagnosed with dyslexia at a young age, she overcame challenges and became an advocate for individuals with learning differences. Princess Beatrice has pursued various professional ventures and is actively involved in charitable works. She married Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi in 2020 and assumed the role of a Counsellor of State with the accession of King Charles III.

EgyptRoyalty

Farida of Egypt

Farida, the Queen of Egypt and the first wife of King Farouk, broke conventions by playing a public role and attending public functions. Her position as queen provided a unique opportunity for female emancipation in a culture that prioritized motherhood. Queen Farida’s contributions to women’s history include challenging societal norms and promoting the role of women in public life.

SwedenArtistRoyalty

Christina, Queen of Sweden

Christina, Queen of Sweden, was a remarkable figure in 17th-century Europe. Born on December 18, 1626, Christina was the daughter of King Gustavus Adolphus and Queen Maria Eleonora. She was born in the royal castle Tre Kronor in Stockholm, Sweden, and her birth was highly anticipated by her parents and the Swedish people.

GermanyGreeceMalta

Princess Alice of Battenberg

Princess Alice of Battenberg was a remarkable figure in European royal history. She overcame challenges throughout her life, including being born deaf. Her marriage connected her to the Greek and Danish royal families, but political upheaval forced her into exile multiple times. Despite personal struggles, she devoted herself to charity work and sheltered Jewish refugees during WWII. Her legacy as a selfless and dedicated individual lives on.

AustraliaCanadaNew Zealand

Elizabeth II

Queen Elizabeth II, the longest-reigning British monarch, ruled for over 70 years. She ascended to the throne in 1952 and became queen of multiple Commonwealth countries. Throughout her reign, she navigated significant political changes while maintaining the monarchy’s popularity. Her death in 2022 marked the end of an era, and she was succeeded by her eldest son, Charles III.

Great BritainMilitaryRoyalty

Queen Gwendolen

Gwendolen, the legendary ruler of ancient Britain, overcame personal injustices to become the first queen regnant of the Britons. With her victory in battle against her ex-husband, King Locrinus, Gwendolen not only avenged herself but also took on the mantle of leadership for the Britons. Her reign was marked by peace, prosperity, and the elimination of threats to her power. Gwendolen’s story has been immortalized in literature and serves as a symbol of strength and female empowerment.