Regina with Kate Williams

"Why do female rulers often end up as the ‘last’ of their empires or kingdoms?" In studying queens from Cleopatra to Hawaii’s last monarch, Kate noticed a pattern: women often mark the final chapters of empires. Why? Because historically, societies have been quick to see women as threats—politically and physically. Whether it’s Cleopatra’s last stand, the Queen of Hawaii’s quiet resistance, or Catherine of Aragon’s tragic story, these women’s reigns come just before collapse or conquest. It’s like society is more comfortable removing power from women than sharing it — and once they’re out, they ofte...