Queen Dowager Zhao’s life was full of turbulence and scandal. She lived during the Warring States period. The Warring States period was a time when the seven states of China–Qin, Chu, Zhao, Wei, Han, Yan, and Qi–declared independence from the ruling Zhou dynasty and warred with each other.[1] Zhao Ji was a dancer and singer [read more]
Most medieval dowager Queens were expected to live quietly and retire to a chaste and religious life after their husband’s death. Sometimes, if they were still young, they could remarry to a man of fitting rank. Kunigunda of Slavonia is an example of a queen who did neither of these things. Instead, she took a [read more]
For the most part, very few medieval Hungarian queens played a role in politics. One exception is Helena of Serbia, also known as Helena of Rascia. Helena was born around 1109, to Uros I, Grand Prince of Serbia, and Anna Diogenissa. Between 1127 and 1130, she married Bela of Hungary. Of the Eastern Orthodox faith [read more]
In my previous article, I discussed the early years of Elizabeth of Bosnia’s life, her life as queen consort, and her early regency. This second part will focus on her fairly short, but eventful regency. The Polish Succession The Polish did not want to be in union with Hungary and wanted their monarch to reside [read more]
Kosem Sultan was one of the most powerful women in the Ottoman Empire. She governed the empire for nearly 30 years. She lived through six reigns of the Ottoman Empire and became regent for two of her sons and grandson. Throughout her role as regent, she gained immense popularity and respect among her subjects. Her [read more]
While Lu Zhi never proclaimed herself Empress, many historians recognise her as the first reigning Empress of China.[1] She was the empress consort to Gaozu, the founder of the Han dynasty. When Emperor Gaozu died, she became Empress Regent for her son, Emperor Hui. Because her son was weak, Lu Zhi reigned China in his stead. [read more]
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