The Remarkable Reign of Queen Zenobia: Defying Rome and Commanding an Empire

Got a story? Emails us at shechangedhistory@gmail.com

Other episodes mentioned today: Ching Shih and Empress Matilda

In this episode of 'She Changed History,' we dive into the extraordinary story of Queen Zenobia of Palmyra, who lived nearly 2000 years ago. Zenobia challenged the might of the Roman Empire, expanding her territory. Known for her intelligence, strategic prowess, and diplomatic skills, she led her army with unmatched determination and gained significant power despite the constraints of her time. However, her ambition eventually caught the attention of the Roman Emperor Aurelian, leading to a series of bloody battles. The episode highlights the historical significance of women in leadership roles and aims to correct the often beauty-focused narrative surrounding women in ancient history.

Sources today are:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Odaenathus
https://www.worldhistory.org/Crisis_of_the_Third_Century/
https://www.britannica.com/place/Syria/Hellenistic-and-Roman-periods
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Silk_Road
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mzBbpCG7gvM Zenobia the Warrior Queen of the Palmyrene Empire
https://www.worldhistory.org/article/1692/roman-armor--weapons/
https://www.worldhistory.org/Crisis_of_the_Third_Century/
https://warfarehistorynetwork.com/article/zenobia-queen-of-palmyra/
https://www.worldhistory.org/zenobia/
https://althistory.fandom.com/wiki/Zenobia_(Vastator_Orbis)

00:00 Introduction and Greetings
00:15 Celebrating Women in STEM
01:12 Introducing Queen Zenobia
03:14 Zenobia's Early Life and Heritage
04:49 Marriage and Rise to Power
10:34 Zenobia's Leadership and Influence
14:41 The Crisis of the Third Century
16:59 Zenobia's Expansion and Military Campaigns
17:43 March to Roman Egypt
18:52 Zenobia's Tactical Maneuvers
20:38 Diplomacy and Expansion
25:25 Aurelian's Response
28:36 The Final Battles
33:10 Zenobia's Capture and Legacy
34:57 Reflection on Women in History
37:59 Closing Remarks