The most famous female pharaoh of Ancient Egypt was Cleopatra VII. Reigning from 51 to 30 BCE, she is best known for her political acumen and her relationships with powerful Roman leaders like Julius Caesar and Mark Antony. Cleopatra was a master of diplomacy and sought to maintain Egypt’s independence amidst external threats. Her legacy is marked by her attempts to strengthen Egypt's position in the Roman world, ultimately culminating in her tragic end and the annexation of Egypt by Rome.