Cleopatra VII Philopator, commonly known as Cleopatra, was the last active ruler of the Ptolemaic Kingdom of Egypt. She reigned from 51 BC until her death in 30 BC. Her legacy is marked by her intelligence, charisma, and strategic acumen, which made her one of history's most fascinating figures.

Born in 69 BC, Cleopatra was a member of the Macedonian Greek dynasty that ruled Egypt after Alexander the Great's death. Unlike her predecessors who did not learn Egyptian, Cleopatra embraced Egyptian culture and even styled herself as a reincarnation of the goddess Isis. This move helped solidify her popularity among the Egyptian populace.

Her reign began in 51 BC when she ascended the throne alongside her brother Ptolemy XIII. Their relationship was fraught with tension, leading to a power struggle that eventually saw Cleopatra exiled. However, she returned to Egypt with the help of Julius Caesar, whom she later became romantically involved with. Their alliance resulted in a son named Ptolemy XV, also known as Caesarion.

After Caesar's assassination in 44 BC, Cleopatra aligned herself with Mark Antony, forming a political and romantic partnership. Together, they had three children. Their union was met with opposition from Rome, particularly from Octavian (later Augustus), who sought to undermine their influence. The conflict culminated in the naval Battle of Actium in 31 BC, where Octavian's forces defeated those of Antony and Cleopatra.

Following their defeat, both Antony and Cleopatra committed suicide in 30 BC. With her death, the Ptolemaic Kingdom ended, and Egypt became a province of the Roman Empire.

Cleopatra's life remains shrouded in mystery and intrigue, making her a timeless figure in history. Her story has inspired countless works of art, literature, and film, ensuring her place as one of history's most captivating personalities.