#13: Tamar of Georgia – About 12 years old
In 1178, King George III of Georgia made his 12-year-old daughter, Tamar, his co-ruler. It was a smart move to ensure a smooth succession. When he died in 1184, Tamar became the sole monarch. She immediately faced opposition from powerful nobles who didn’t want a woman in charge, but she proved to be stronger and smarter than any of them. Tamar’s reign became known as the Georgian Golden Age. She was a brilliant military leader and a diplomat who greatly expanded her kingdom’s borders and influence. Under her rule, Georgian culture thrived. She was so successful that future generations gave her the title Tamar the Great.
