Cleopatra, the last active ruler of the Ptolemaic Kingdom of Egypt, envisioned a powerful and united Egypt. She sought to maintain Egyptian independence and strengthen its power by aligning with Rome, which was emerging as the world's leading power. Her vision included a blend of Egyptian and Hellenistic cultures, strengthening her rule and extending her influence throughout the Mediterranean world.

Born in 69 BC, Cleopatra VII Philopator was a member of the Ptolemaic dynasty, a family of Macedonian Greek origin that ruled Egypt after Alexander the Great's death during the Hellenistic period. She was the daughter of Ptolemy XII Auletes and assumed the throne after his death in 51 BC, initially ruling jointly with her younger brother Ptolemy XIII, whom she married as was customary at the time. However, their relationship soured, leading to a civil war. Cleopatra's reign was marked by political and romantic alliances with Julius Caesar and Mark Antony, two of the most powerful men in the Roman Empire. In 47 BC, Cleopatra bore a son, Caesarion, whom she claimed was Caesar's child. This marked the beginning of a powerful alliance between Egypt and Rome. After Caesar's assassination in 44 BC, Cleopatra aligned with Mark Antony, with whom she had three children. Their relationship further strengthened the alliance with Rome and created a formidable political and military power. However, this alliance also sparked a conflict with Octavian, Caesar's adopted son and heir. This culminated in the war of Actium in 31 BC, where Octavian's forces defeated those of Cleopatra and Antony. Following their defeat, Antony committed suicide, and Cleopatra followed suit in 30 BC, traditionally believed to be by means of an asp bite. Her death ended the Ptolemaic Kingdom, and Egypt became a province of the Roman Empire.

As a historical figure, Cleopatra has not received awards or recognitions in the traditional sense. However, her life and reign have left an indelible mark on history and culture. Her intelligence, political acumen, and romantic associations have made her a figure of enduring fascination. She has been the subject of countless works of literature, art, and film, becoming a symbol of beauty, power, and female sovereignty. Her influence extends beyond her lifetime and continues to shape modern perceptions of female rulership and power.