These women lived in turbulent times, yet they proved that women are not merely ornamental figures to admire.
1. Queen Olga, Russia
Queen Olga was one of the first female rulers of Russia and one of the most powerful women in the world.
In 945, after King Igor was assassinated, their son was only 3 years old, and Olga stepped in as regent for her child. An attractive, beautiful, and intelligent woman, Queen Olga was also ruthless and willing to eliminate those who sought to take her power.
After her husband’s death, she plotted revenge against those who attempted to overthrow her and the country. During her nearly 20-year reign, she gradually implemented new tax reforms, required her people to convert to Christianity without the use of force, and worked to improve infrastructure across the nation.
Additionally, she established trade routes with powerful empires such as the Byzantines and the Holy Roman Empire. Under her rule, Russia became a European powerhouse that lasted until the 20th century.
2. Queen Cleopatra, Egypt
As a stunningly beautiful woman from Egypt over 2,000 years ago, Cleopatra became queen at the age of 18 and successfully ruled Egypt. Not only was she beautiful, but Cleopatra also possessed extraordinary intelligence, extensive knowledge, and unparalleled persuasive abilities.
With her love triangle involving two heroes of ancient Rome: Julius Caesar (100-44 BC) and Mark Antony (one of the three rulers of Rome from 82-30 BC), Cleopatra not only protected Egypt’s interests but also prevented the Romans from seizing the Mediterranean.
3. Empress Wu Zetian, China
She was the daughter of a district admiral during the Tang Dynasty. A remarkably beautiful woman, she was favored by two emperors, Tang Taizong and Tang Gaozong, and became the empress of Tang Gaozong.
In both history and Chinese legend, Wu Zetian is depicted as an intelligent woman with cunning strategies and cruelty.
After 20 years in power, on September 9, 690, Wu Zetian ascended to the throne and changed the dynasty’s name to Zhou. As the first female emperor of China, she implemented a series of progressive policies regarding the use of talent, intellectuals, organized examinations, and encouraged advancements in agriculture, irrigation, and military development…
She reigned for 50 years, transforming China into a nation with a developed economy, a stable society, and a growing population.
4. Catherine the Great, Russia
Catherine the Great was the most powerful woman of the 18th century and the longest-ruling female leader of the Russian Empire. Under her reign, the Russian Empire was revitalized and recognized as one of the greatest powers in Europe at the time. Queen Catherine was intelligent and ambitious, helping the Russian Empire expand significantly through both conquest and diplomacy.
She advocated for political, social, and economic reforms, modernizing the country. Her reign, from 1762 to 1796, is famously known as the Catherine Era, which marked the golden age of the Russian Empire.
5. Empress Theodora, Turkey
Theodora was the Empress of the Eastern Roman Empire and one of the most powerful figures in the Eastern Roman Empire. She also served as regent for Prince Michael III from the death of Theophilus in 842 until 855.
A strong and authoritative leader, she governed with an iron fist and caution, even removing Pope Silverius after he refused to follow her orders. Moreover, she implemented several infrastructure projects, transforming Constantinople into one of the most advanced cities of its time and promoting women’s rights throughout the country.
6. Queen Elizabeth I, United Kingdom
Elizabeth I was one of the most powerful queens from the United Kingdom, also known as the Virgin Queen. While Queen Victoria is more widely recognized and ruled over a vast territory, it was Queen Elizabeth who established the power and position for Queen Victoria.
The victory of England over the Spanish Armada is associated with her name and is often considered one of the most glorious victories in English history.
After 45 years of reign, the queen provided the United Kingdom with a valuable period of stability and was a key factor in fostering national consciousness among the English people.
7. Empress Dowager Cixi, China
Empress Dowager Cixi was one of the most powerful figures of the Qing Dynasty in particular and China in general. She contributed significantly to transforming China into a global power as it is today, although many Chinese historians have described her as a “tyrant.”
Cixi controlled the Qing Dynasty for 47 years, from 1861 to 1908, completely holding power for 27 years (1881 – 1908) after the death of Empress Dowager Ci’an.
She was a supporter of the self-strengthening movement, playing a major role in military reforms and technological advancements. Additionally, Empress Dowager Cixi actively implemented various other reforms, such as liberating Chinese women from the foot binding custom.
