Women have played a great role in warfare throughout history. In a time when women were suppressed and were often expected to stay behind the doors, many women chose to speak up for themselves and others, and break societal norms to fight against oppression and become fierce warriors. Breaking societal norms was not easy, especially in the medieval era when knights and their battles took rise. In this era, many women chose to fight and prove their mettle in life and on the battlefield. Today, we bring to you a list of such women warriors of the medieval era who wrote history with swords and blood.
Matilda of Tuscany
The very first on our list is Matilda of Tuscany. The lady was also called the "Gran Contessa". She stood as an important figure in the medieval era of Italy. The lady played an important role in encouraging the papacy at the time of the Investiture Controversy, which led to a battle against Emperor Henry IV.
Joan of Arc
Here comes another important lady who chose to write history. She was also called the Maid of Orleans. Joan of Arc stands as probably the most popular female warrior of the medieval era. The lady successfully led the French army to not one but many victories at the time of the Hundred Years' War. The lady's exemplary leadership proved to be an inspiration for the troops.
Rani Lakshmibai
Rani of Jhansi, or Rani Lakshmibai is the pride of India. She was an important figure in the Indian Revolt of the year 1857 against the oppressive rule of the British in the country. Rani Lakshmibai fearlessly led troops into battle. She was known for her great valor, patriotism, and heroic personality. The lady played a significant role in the country's struggle for independence.
Razia Sultana
What made Razia Sultana special was the fact that she was the only female ruler of the Delhi Sultanate. The lady was popular for her exemplary military skills and intelligence. The lady was successful in defending her kingdom against a variety of rebellions.
Kittur Chennamma
Kittur Chennamma was an important lady figure in the medieval era as she was the queen of the princely state of Kittur, situated in the state of present-day Karnataka. The lady showcased exemplary valor and tactical prowess against the British East India Company in the year 1824 in an armed rebellion in the defense of the kingdom.
Alfhild
An 8th-century Viking warrior, Alfhild was a prominent figure of the medieval era. What made her story interesting and worth appreciating is the fact that in a time when women were not expected to fight battles, the determination of Alfhild could not stop her from disguising herself as a man to be a part of a Viking crew. The lady was popular for her exemplary military and leadership skills.
Jeanne Hachette
Also popular as Jehanne Fourquet, Jeanne Hachette was a French female warrior who defended Beauvais against the forces of Charles the Bold. The heroine's actions of valor and courage were enough to bring victory to the people of the town.
Tomoe Gozen
Another prominent lady figure of the past, Tomoe Gozen, fought at the time of the Genpei War of Japan. The time was the late 12th century when the legendary samurai showcased her exemplary archery and swordsmanship skills. The lady became popular for her courage and bravery, along with getting popular for her battlefield prowess. No wonder the heroine made a strong position in the Japanese folklore.
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