On July 9th, 2024, a heated exchange on X (formerly Twitter) ignited a widespread debate on the role of women in warfare.1
A female user, responding to a statement by controversial influencer Andrew Tate, boldly declared that “every single war in history was started by a man.” This sweeping assertion, while aiming to challenge misogynistic tropes, overlooks the roles women have played in conflicts throughout history.
This exploration challenges the assumption that warfare is exclusively a male domain by highlighting these women who actively shaped conflicts throughout history.
1. Boudica (Died AD 60 or 61)
Queen of the Iceni tribe in Roman Britain, Boudica led a revolt against Roman rule after her husband’s death and her daughters were assaulted. Though initially successful, her uprising was ultimately crushed by the Romans.
2. Empress Wu Zetian (624–705)
The only female emperor in Chinese history, Empress Wu Zetian consolidated power through military campaigns and political maneuvering. Her reign was marked by expansionist wars and internal conflicts.
3. Queen Nzinga (1583–1663)
Ruler of Ndongo and Matamba in present-day Angola, Queen Nzinga fiercely resisted Portuguese colonization and engaged in decades-long warfare to maintain her kingdoms’ independence.
4. Empress Catherine the Great (1729–1796)
Catherine, Empress of Russia, led her country through numerous wars, including the Russo-Turkish War and the Partitions of Poland, expanding Russia’s territory and influence.
The Queen of Madagascar implemented a strict isolationist policy and fiercely resisted European encroachment, leading to conflicts with Britain and France.
6. Queen Victoria (1819–1901)
Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom and Empress of India saw the expansion of the British Empire through numerous wars and colonial conquests, including the Opium Wars and the Boer War.
7. Golda Meir (1898–1978)
Prime Minister of Israel, Golda Meir, led her country during the Yom Kippur War, a conflict that had significant consequences for the Middle East.
8. Tomyris (6th century BC)
Queen of the Massagetae, an Iranian people, Tomyris led forces against Cyrus the Great of Persia and defeated his army, reportedly killing him in battle.
9. Artemisia I of Caria (5th century BC)
Artemisia I was a naval commander who fought for the Persians in the Greco-Persian Wars. She gained recognition for her strategic skills and bravery at the Battle of Salamis.
10. Zenobia (3rd century AD)
Zenobia, Queen of the Palmyrene Empire, rebelled against Roman rule and expanded her empire through military conquests before eventually being defeated by Emperor Aurelian.
11. Matilda of Tuscany (1046-1115)
A powerful Italian noblewoman who supported Pope Gregory VII during the Investiture Controversy, Matilda of Tuscany led her troops against Emperor Henry IV.
12. Margaret of Anjou (1430-1482)
Queen of England and wife of Henry VI, Margaret of Anjou led the Lancastrian forces during the Wars of the Roses, a series of civil wars for the English throne.
13. Isabella I of Castile (1451-1504)
Queen of Castile and León, Isabella I played a crucial role in the Reconquista, the centuries-long Christian campaign to expel Muslims from the Iberian Peninsula.
14. Ching Shih (1775-1844)
Ching Shih was a Chinese pirate who commanded a vast fleet and controlled the South China Sea. Her forces engaged in numerous naval battles and raids.
15. Lakshmi Bai (1828-1858)
Lakshmi Bai was the Rani of Jhansi, a state in India. She led a rebellion against British rule during the Indian Rebellion of 1857, becoming a symbol of resistance.
These women’s contributions have been integral to the outcomes of wars, proving that courage and resilience know no gender.
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Martha A. Lavallie
Martha is a journalist with close to a decade of experience in uncovering and reporting on the most compelling stories of our time. Passionate about staying ahead of the curve, she specializes in shedding light on trending topics and captivating global narratives. Her insightful articles have garnered acclaim, making her a trusted voice in today's dynamic media landscape.
