Cleopatra VII

Cleopatra VII is not a native Egyptian but the daughter of the Macedonian general Ptolemy I Soter. Her reign lasted from 51 BC to 30 BC, during which she proved herself to be a prominent leader, and one of the most famous ancient Egyptian Pharaohs. The Kingdom of Egypt prospered during her reign as various reforms were introduced to improve the Egyptian economy. Her foreign connections, both personal and political, proved to be of great value to the kingdom and led to much prosperous foreign trade.

Dominating Egypt was never an easy task for her as her ascension to the throne was challenged by her own brother. An intelligent and talented emperor, but at the age of 39, she committed suicide, although how has yet to be proven. Egypt's last ruling pharaoh had a great influence on literature and theater, with many plays, documentaries, television series, and movies being made about her life. After Cleopatra VII's death, the Egyptian Empire came to an end. Cleopatra VII was an astute, politically savvy ruler who succeeded in bringing peace and relative prosperity to an ailing empire.

• Duration of reign: 51 BC – 30 BC