• 8 months ago
Cleopatra VII Philopator, often known simply as Cleopatra, was the last active ruler of the Ptolemaic Kingdom of Egypt. Born in 69 BC, Cleopatra ascended to the throne in 51 BC, ruling alongside her father, then later her brothers and eventually her son.

She is remembered for her intelligence, political acumen, and her relationships with prominent Roman leaders, notably Julius Caesar and Mark Antony. Cleopatra sought to maintain Egypt's independence and protect its interests amidst the power struggles of the Roman Republic.

Her romantic involvement with Julius Caesar resulted in the birth of a son, Caesarion. After Caesar's assassination, Cleopatra aligned herself with Mark Antony, with whom she had three children. However, their alliance was ultimately defeated by Octavian (later Emperor Augustus) in the Battle of Actium in 31 BC.

Facing capture by Octavian, Cleopatra committed suicide in 30 BC, traditionally by allowing herself to be bitten by an asp. With her death, the Ptolemaic dynasty came to an end, and Egypt became a province of the Roman Empire.

Cleopatra's legacy has been a subject of fascination for centuries, with her story immortalized in literature, art, and film. She remains an enduring symbol of power, ambition, and romance in both ancient and modern cultures.

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