Cleopatra, Queen of Egypt

Cleopatra was Queen of Egypt from 51 BCE to 30 BCE. Much of the facts of her reign were lost in the burning of Alexandria and from the defamation of her by the Romans. The image that is left of her is that of Cleopatra the Seductress, such as in the Elizabeth Taylor movie version from 1963.  However, the reality is much different.

Cleopatra was a highly educated and politically savvy ruler. She spoke multiple languages, frequented the library of Alexandria to study and learn, while conducting business with multiple countries and empires, like the Romans, on behalf of Egypt.

While she was cut throat and did not let anything stand in the way of her reign, she did no less than any man has done while in the seat of power. The only difference being that she was a woman. 

She tied herself to the Roman Empire through her relations, and eventual children, with Julius Ceasar and Marc Antony as a way to solidify her status and the status of Egypt. The Romans considered her a threat and tarnished her name, an injustice which has unfortunately lasted for thousands of years. Much of the knowledge of Cleopatra and her reign is still lost, but from what is known about her paints her as a strong, intelligent, take-charge woman who was more than fit to rule Egypt.

Here is our YouTube video on her : Cleopatra Queen of Egypt

For more information check out:

Dr Kara Cooney http://karacooney.squarespace.com/

When Women Ruled the World by Dr. Kara Cooney  http://karacooney.squarespace.com/when-women-ruled-the-world

Cleopatra: A Life by Stacy Schiff

Cleopatra the Great: The Woman Behind the Legend by Dr. Joann Fletcher