Women Who Made History

She commanded armies and built warships. She was ruthless with rivals and quick to eliminate traitors. She spoke at least nine languages.

The first woman who made history in Western civilisation, who believed she had a divine mission and saved France during the dark days.

In an era dominated by men, Queen Elizabeth I was the only woman. She ruled England for 45 years, laying the foundation for the British Empire.

At the age of 14 Sophie Auguste Friederike von Anhalt-Zerbst, a princess from a minor German aristocratic family, journeyed to Russia.

Some countries attain crucial characteristics under female rule, such as the England of Queen Elizabeth I and the Russian Catherine the Great.

Unlike the other women in this series, Sophie Scholl had neither power nor influence. She has gone down in history because she took a stand.