This guide introduces some of the most famous queens who ruled in a way that's perfect for kids ages 8–12, with a fun fact about each and a free printable worksheet to learn more.
Queens of the ancient world
Hatshepsut was one of the very few women ever to rule ancient Egypt as pharaoh.
Cleopatra was famous for her sharp mind — she spoke many languages and outwitted her rivals.
Queens who led their nations
Elizabeth I of England led her country to defeat the great Spanish Armada, a huge invasion fleet.
Catherine the Great grew Russia into one of the most powerful nations in the world.
Isabella I of Spain was the queen who paid for Christopher Columbus's famous voyage west in 1492.
Queens who broke the rules
Wu Zetian became the only woman ever to rule China as emperor in her own right.
Queen Nzinga of Africa bravely stood up to Portuguese invaders and resisted them for decades.
Explore history's great rulers
Meet these remarkable women in our Queens Who Ruled activity book, with facts, word searches and an Explorer Certificate. Or start with a free worksheet.
A fun question for young historians: which queen was the only woman ever to rule China as emperor?