The names of most women of the ancient world have been forgotten, but those that echo across the centuries are a reminder of their power and achievements. The Pharaoh Hatshepsut ruled Egypt as a man and left a stunning funerary temple that still stands, while Lady Hao in Tang China and Boudicca in Roman Britain were both military commanders who led their people into battle. Elsewhere, women gained political influence in mighty empires, and were scholars and philosophers. This book tells their stories and describes their achievements.