Her Majesty Queen Cleopatra VII Philopator: The Life of the Powerful Egyptian Pharaoh, Part 1 of 2

One of the most recognizable figures in human history, Her Majesty Queen Cleopatra has become a symbol of charm and beauty. However, her true legacy lies in her exceptional abilities as a savvy and tactful politician, as well as a skilled diplomat and negotiator. Queen Cleopatra used her brilliant wit, to rule Ancient Egypt and became one of the most powerful women in the world.

Contrary to popular belief, Queen Cleopatra was not of Egyptian, but rather of Greek descent. She became the last Ptolemaic pharaoh and the last pharaoh to rule over Ancient Egypt before it fell under Roman control in 30 BC. Born in 69 BC, Cleopatra’s name means “Glory of her Father,” and her adopted title Thea Philopator means “Father-Loving Goddess.”

Some sources report that King Ptolemy XII would have made Cleopatra a co-regent in 52 BC. Upon her father’s passing in 51 BC, the throne of Egypt did pass to the 18-year-old Cleopatra and her 10-year-old brother, Ptolemy XIII. Queen Cleopatra inherited a kingdom that had been diminished, as well as her father’s debts to the Roman Republic.

Queen Cleopatra was an astute monarch with an ability to bring peace and prosperity to her country, and she quickly re-established Egypt’s wealth. Throughout her reign, her main concern was Egypt’s relationship with the powerful Roman Republic, which had taken control of most of Europe and parts of North Africa. At the same time, Queen Cleopatra kept Egypt independent from Rome.

After King Ptolemy XIV passed away in 44 BC, Her Majesty Cleopatra remained as Queen of Egypt, elevating her three-year-old son, Caesarion, as co-ruler King Ptolemy XV. Queen Cleopatra identified herself with the Egyptian Goddess Isis, helper of the departed entering the afterlife. She distinguished herself with this divinity to further reinforce her position as Her Majesty the Queen of Egypt.