Famous Mongolian Empresses & Queens

Danashiri, daughter of El Temür, served as a prominent figure during her husband's reign. She faced challenges due to the emperor's fondness for his concubine, Lady Ki, leading to conflicts and harsh actions. Her involvement in her brother's rebellion further complicated her position, resulting in exile to Hefei and eventual poisoning. Despite these struggles, Danashiri's professional life reflected her efforts to navigate complex political dynamics and protect her family members, ultimately leaving a mark on the history of the time.

Börte was the head of the first Court of Genghis Khan and the Grand Empress of his Empire. She played a crucial role in supporting her husband's rise to power and eventual establishment of the Mongol Empire. Betrothed to Genghis at a young age, she was kidnapped by a rival tribe, leading to Genghis's heroic rescue mission. Börte's resilience and strategic support were instrumental in shaping the destiny of the empire, and her legacy continued through her children and descendants.

Töregene Khatun served as the Great Khatun and regent of the Mongol Empire following the death of her husband, Ögedei Khan, in 1241. During her regency until 1246, she played a crucial role in governing the empire and managing political affairs. Töregene Khatun was instrumental in maintaining stability and continuity within the Mongol leadership, overseeing the administration of the vast empire. Her leadership and diplomatic skills were evident in her efforts to guide the empire during this transitional period.

Chabi was a prominent figure in the Mongol-led Yuan dynasty of China, serving as an empress consort to Kublai Khan. She played a significant role in politics and diplomacy, advocating for the interests of the Khongirad tribe and influencing key decisions within the empire. Chabi was known for her intelligence, strategic thinking, and cultural contributions, promoting art, literature, and religion at the Yuan court. Her leadership and influence shaped the policies and direction of the empire during her time as empress consort.

Queen Noguk played a significant role in Goryeo as a diplomat and mediator between the Korean court and the Yuan dynasty. Her professional life was marked by her efforts to strengthen diplomatic ties, promote cultural exchanges, and maintain political stability during a time of transition and uncertainty. She utilized her status and connections to navigate complex political landscapes, contributing to the stability and prosperity of the Goryeo kingdom.

Ibaqa Beki, a Kerait princess and Mongol khatun, played a significant role in the early 13th century. She was briefly married to Genghis Khan before marrying general Jürchedei. Known for her wealth and influence, she was granted a high title even after her remarriage. Ibaqa was implicated in suspicions of poisoning following the death of Ögedei Khan but was eventually cleared of the charges. Her actions, including hosting parties and maintaining court connections, impacted the kin network of Kerait wives within the Genghisid family.

Princess Supreme Jeguk was a prominent figure in the Yuan empire, serving as an imperial princess and queen consort in Goryeo. Her influence extended beyond familial ties, with a reputation as a respected and influential figure in the imperial court. Known for her wisdom and diplomatic skills, she played a crucial role in fostering relations between Goryeo and the Yuan dynasty. Her leadership and strategic acumen were instrumental in shaping political decisions and maintaining stability within the empire.

Empress Dowager Xiaozhuang played a crucial role in the Qing imperial court, renowned for her political acumen and wisdom. She held significant influence during the reigns of her son and grandson emperors. Despite never holding the title of empress consort, she was posthumously honored with the title Empress Xiaozhuangwen. Her leadership and insights left a lasting impact on the Qing dynasty, and her legacy as a respected and influential figure endures in Chinese history.

Nambui was a significant figure in the Yuan dynasty as the empress consort of Kublai Khan. After the death of Kublai's first wife Chabi, Nambui became his wife in 1283. During Kublai's reign, she played a pivotal role in his administration, with some sources suggesting that she had the authority to issue important decrees on his behalf. Nambui's professional life was marked by her close involvement in the governance of the empire, acting as a key intermediary between Kublai and his ministers.

Noble Consort Ying, a member of the Mongol Bordered Red Banner Barin clan, served as a consort to the Qianlong Emperor. Despite being 20 years younger than the emperor, she displayed grace and intelligence in her role. Noble Consort Ying actively participated in court ceremonies and events, contributing to the imperial court's prestige. Her dedication and loyalty to the emperor earned her respect among the court officials and concubines. Noble Consort Ying's presence added elegance and sophistication to the royal court during her time as a consort.

Orghana was a prominent figure in the political landscape of the Mongol Empire during the Toluid Civil War. She wielded power and influence, serving as a key player in negotiations and peace efforts between rival factions. Orghana demonstrated strategic acumen and diplomatic skill, evident in her role as a negotiator and peace broker. Her involvement in the succession process within the Chagatai Khanate showcases her ability to navigate complex power dynamics. Orghana's legacy as a wise and discerning leader endures through her pivotal actions during a turbulent period in Mongol history.

Erketü Qatun, also known as the Powerful Queen, was an influential member of the Borjigin clan in the late 16th and early 17th centuries. She played a crucial role as a go-between for the Tümed and the Ming Empire, earning prestige in both courts. Her pro-Ming dynasty views facilitated the longest period of peace between the two powers. Throughout her professional life, she strategically navigated political rivalries, maintained military command, and upheld diplomatic relations, solidifying her legacy as a key figure in Mongolian history.

Radnashiri was an empress consort of the Yuan dynasty, known for her influential role during her husband's reign as Emperor Renzong. She became empress in 1311 and later Empress Dowager in 1320. Radnashiri's influence grew with the appointment of her son as crown prince, although it was limited by another influential figure, Dagi. Her professional life was marked by political maneuvering and the exercise of power within the imperial court, culminating in her posthumous designation as Empress Zhuāngyìcí Shèng.

Oghul Qaimish was the nominal regent of the Mongol Empire following the death of her husband Güyük Khan. Despite her limited involvement in politics during Güyük's reign, her rule after his passing was marked by ineffectiveness and internal conflicts with her sons. Facing opposition from political rivals, her reign was short-lived as she was outmaneuvered and ultimately implicated in a failed coup attempt. Subsequently, she was imprisoned, allegedly tortured, and executed after a show trial by Möngke Khan.

Budashiri played a significant role as Empress of China and Khatun of Mongols, serving as an interim regent and a prominent figure of the Yuan dynasty between 1332 and 1339. She demonstrated leadership and diplomatic skills during her time as regent, guiding the empire through transitional periods following her husband's death and the election of his successor. Budashiri's professional life was marked by her effective governance and influence in the political landscape of the era, leaving a lasting legacy in the history of the Yuan dynasty.

Empress Xiaohuizhang was the second empress consort of Fulin, the Shunzhi Emperor, and later honoured as Empress Dowager Renxian during the reign of her step-son, Xuanye, the Kangxi Emperor. She held the title of empress consort of Qing until her husband's death in 1661. Known for her grace and wisdom, Empress Xiaohuizhang played a significant role in court affairs and governance during her time as empress consort, contributing to the stability and prosperity of the Qing dynasty.

Khulan Khatun was an empress consort of Genghis Khan and held a prominent position as the head of the second Court of Genghis Khan in the Mongol Empire. Her professional life was marked by significant influence and power, second only to Grand Empress Börte. As a key figure in the empire, she played a crucial role in court affairs, decision-making processes, and the administration of the vast Mongol territories. Khulan Khatun's leadership and diplomatic skills contributed to the stability and success of the Mongol Empire during her time.

Princess Supreme Gyeguk was a prominent figure in the Yuan Dynasty, known for her influential role as a Korean queen consort. She navigated the complex political landscape with grace and wisdom, serving as a bridge between the Mongol rulers and the Korean royalty. As a member of the imperial family, she wielded significant power and influence, contributing to diplomatic relations and cultural exchanges between the two nations. Her legacy as a respected and capable leader endures through her contributions to the stability and prosperity of the region.

Queen Anu, also known as Lady Anu or Ana Dara, was a prominent figure in the late 17th century as the queen consort who played a significant role in the establishment of the Dzungar Khanate. She demonstrated exceptional leadership by actively leading warriors into battle during this period. Queen Anu's professional life primarily revolved around her strategic military involvement and her contributions to the foundation and expansion of the Dzungar Khanate, showcasing her strength, courage, and determination in a male-dominated environment.

Bulugan, a Mongolian princess and consort of Yuan emperor Temür Khan, played a significant role in governance as a regent during her husband's illness. She took decisive actions to secure the succession of Prince Dashi, removing potential rivals from the court. Bulugan later attempted to set up Muslim Ananda as the new khagan, marrying him and converting to Islam. However, her alliance faced opposition, leading to her arrest and eventual execution in 1307. Her professional life was marked by political intrigue, power struggles, and attempts to maintain influence in the imperial court.

Zhenge was an empress consort of the Yuan dynasty, married to Külüg Khan (Emperor Wuzong). She was created empress in 1310 but had no children and left the palace in 1313 to become a bhikkuni. She died in November 1327 and was interred with her late husband. Posthumously named Empress Xuān Cí Huì Shèng, she made a significant impact during her time in the Yuan dynasty, showcasing her dedication to both her royal duties and her personal spiritual journey.

Sugabala was an empress consort of the Yuan dynasty, married to Gegeen Khan. She was created empress in 1321 but this ended abruptly when Gegeen Khan was assassinated 2 years later. She was given the posthumous title Empress Zhuāngjìngyì Shèng. Her professional life was marked by her role as an empress consort, supporting Gegeen Khan during his reign. Despite the short duration of her empress status, she left a lasting impact as evidenced by the title bestowed upon her after her death.

Kurdujin Khatun, an Ilkhanid princess, held significant political power during her reigns in Kerman and Shiraz. She ascended to rule Kerman in 1295 and 1296, demonstrating her leadership abilities at a young age. Later, between 1319 and 1338, she governed Shiraz, showcasing her enduring influence and effectiveness as a ruler over an extended period. Kurdujin Khatun's professional life was marked by her strategic decision-making, administrative skills, and ability to maintain stability and order in the regions under her control.