That being said, there are instances throughout history where women have played significant roles in initiating or leading conflicts. Below are some examples:
1. Empress Wu Zetian (China): She ruled China from 690 to 705 CE and was the only woman to hold the title of emperor. During her reign, Empress Wu waged military campaigns to expand Chinese territory, including conquests of neighboring regions like Korea and parts of Central Asia.
2. Queen Elizabeth I (England): Queen Elizabeth I of England reigned from 1558 to 1603 and was known for her assertive leadership style. While she did not directly lead military campaigns, her reign saw several conflicts, such as the Anglo-Spanish War, in which she defended England's interests against Spain and supported naval expeditions against Spanish fleets.
3. Joan of Arc (France): Joan of Arc, also known as the "Maid of Orleans," was a French peasant girl who led military campaigns during the Hundred Years' War (1337-1453) between England and France. She believed she had received divine guidance to help France defeat the English and played a crucial role in several victories, lifting French morale and inspiring forces loyal to the French monarchy.
4. Empress Catherine II (Russia): Catherine II, also known as Catherine the Great, ruled Russia from 1762 to 1796. During her reign, she engaged in several wars to expand Russian territory, including the Russo-Turkish Wars and the partitions of Poland.
It's important to note that attributing wars solely to women is an oversimplification of complex events. Historical conflicts often involve a combination of political, economic, religious, and other factors that drive decision-making and outcomes.