An important contribution to the contemporary discussion of gender and power, this work presents more than eighty women who, in the face of significant obstacles, demonstrated indomitable force.

From Cleopatra to Margaret Thatcher, and from Christine Lagarde to Joan of Arc, this book focuses on powerful women across the centuries and geographical zones.

At the head of military operations, at the origin of revolutionary laws, dictatorial rulers or emblems of an entire people, these strong-willed women continue to fascinate and inspire. The text-richly illustrated by portraits, photographs, and mythical scenes-also addresses the question of their representations and their attributes of power.

In the history of world rulers, only a relatively small number of women have gained and retained places of power. In order to overcome misogyny, archaic laws governing inheritance, and the constraints of religious fervor, the women featured here incarnate exceptional determination and strength of character. Their stories-often riveting tales of courage in the face of injustice-offer fascinating and rich inspiration.