Cleopatra

She commanded armies and built warships. She was ruthless with rivals and quick to eliminate traitors. She spoke at least nine languages, received diplomats and negotiated with kings. But the last woman to rule Egypt is a legend today because of her powers of seduction. Her story has provided material for countless novels and films, and the myth of Cleopatra lives on, her appearance fused with that of Elizabeth Taylor in the epic 1963 film. The real Cleopatra may well not have been so graceful; her attraction was more a matter of intelligence and strength of will. And she succeeded in winning over the most powerful Romans of her day.