description Queen Cleopatra VII Overview
Cleopatra VII was the last active ruler of Ptolemaic Egypt, reigning from 51 to 30 BCE within a dynasty of Macedonian Greek origin. She governed during the Roman Republic's civil wars and formed political and personal alliances first with Julius Caesar and later with Mark Antony. After Octavian defeated Antony and Cleopatra at Actium, Roman forces took Alexandria and both rulers died in 30 BCE. Egypt subsequently became a province under Roman control.
help Queen Cleopatra VII FAQ
When did Cleopatra VII rule Egypt?
Cleopatra VII ruled Ptolemaic Egypt from 51 to 30 BCE and was the last active ruler of the Ptolemaic dynasty. Her reign ended when Egypt became part of the Roman world. [Cleopatra VII biography](https://www.worldhistory.org/Cleopatra_VII/)
Was Cleopatra VII ethnically Egyptian?
Cleopatra belonged to the Macedonian Greek Ptolemaic dynasty, which had ruled Egypt since the death of Alexander the Great's successors. She was nevertheless the reigning monarch of Egypt and used Egyptian royal traditions to strengthen her rule.
Why did Cleopatra ally first with Julius Caesar and later with Mark Antony?
Her alliance with Julius Caesar helped her regain power during a succession crisis in Alexandria in 48 BCE. After Caesar's assassination in 44 BCE, she aligned with Mark Antony to protect Egypt and support their shared position in the Roman civil wars.
How did Cleopatra's reign end?
Cleopatra and Mark Antony were defeated by Octavian at the Battle of Actium in 31 BCE. After their deaths in 30 BCE, Octavian annexed Egypt as a Roman province.
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