10 Great Warrior Women of the Ancient World

Throughout history, warfare has predominantly been viewed as a male domain. However, there have always been remarkable women who defied expectations, proving that courage and skill in battle are not confined by gender. While limited records exist, many ancient cultures did recognize the valor of female warriors. Here’s a look at ten remarkable warrior women from the ancient world who broke through societal barriers to leave their mark on history—on and off the battlefield.

1. Boudica (Britannia, 1st Century AD)

Boudica was the fierce queen of the Iceni tribe in what is now modern-day England. After the Roman Empire annexed her territory and mistreated her family, she rallied a coalition of tribes to revolt against Roman rule. Her army destroyed major Roman settlements, including London, before her eventual defeat. Boudica remains a symbol of resistance and strength, celebrated for her indomitable spirit and leadership.

2. Artemisia I of Caria (5th Century BC)

A fierce naval commander, Artemisia I fought alongside Xerxes I during the Persian Wars. As the queen of Halicarnassus, she commanded her own fleet and played a pivotal role in the Battle of Salamis. Although she ultimately recommended retreat, Artemisia’s bravery and tactical acumen left a lasting impression on her contemporaries, illustrating that women could lead in the most treacherous of circumstances.

3. Tomyris (Scythia, 6th Century BC)

Tomyris was the queen of the Massagetae, a nomadic people in Central Asia. After her son was slain by Cyrus the Great of Persia, she led her warriors into a vengeful battle that resulted in the devastating defeat of the Persian army. She is famous for allegedly immersing Cyrus’s head in a bowl of blood—a striking symbol of her relentless pursuit of justice.

4. Lozen (Apache, 19th Century)

Although her lifetime extended into the modern era, Lozen’s warrior spirit was forged in a time when Apache women took on tasks traditionally attributed to men. A skilled warrior and military strategist, she fought alongside Geronimo, using her abilities to foresee enemy movements and provide a crucial advantage in battles against the U.S. and Mexican forces.

5. Zenobia (Palmyra, 3rd Century AD)

Zenobia was the queen of the Palmyrene Empire and is remembered for her bold resistance against Roman expansion. She declared herself queen of Egypt and led her army through various military campaigns, expanding her territory significantly. Though ultimately defeated, her legacy impressively highlighted a woman who ruled with power and ambition in an era dominated by men.

6. The Amazons (Various Cultures)

While the Amazons blur the line between myth and reality, these legendary warrior women are believed to have existed among several ancient cultures, including the Scythians and Greeks. Often depicted as formidable horse riders and archers, the idea of the Amazons shattered gender norms. Their tales of battle have inspired countless stories—demonstrating their fascination with powerful female figures in history.

7. Catherine the Great (Russia, 18th Century)

While primarily known as a ruler who expanded and modernized Russia, Catherine also engaged in military strategies that involved direct combat. Her reign saw significant military campaigns, and although she was not a traditional warrior, she wielded military power decisively, exemplifying that leadership can come in various forms.

8. Nanyehi (Cherokee, 18th Century)

Nanyehi, also known as Nancy Ward, was a beloved figure in Cherokee history famed for her bravery in battle. After taking up arms during conflicts with other tribes and European settlers, she became a war chief and played a crucial role in negotiating peace—making her a figure of both strength and diplomacy.

9. Māori Women Warriors (New Zealand, 19th Century)

Various Māori women took up arms during the New Zealand Wars, defying colonial expectations. In particular, women such as Te Puea Herangi and her sisters organized and led their people in battle while also acting as matriarchs. Their engagement in war illustrated the role Māori women played in defending their land and culture.

10. Dahomey Amazons (West Africa, 17th Century Onwards)

The Dahomey Amazons were a formidable regiment of female soldiers in the Kingdom of Dahomey (now Benin). Known for their fierce fighting skills and bravery, these women played a crucial role in military campaigns for their kingdom, demonstrating that women could be both warriors and leaders.