3Aelia Pulcheria

Aelia Pulcheria was born into the ruling family of the Eastern Roman Empire in the late 4th century CE. Her father died leaving Pulcheria’s 7 year old brother the throne. At 15 she dismissed the officials ruling on her brother’s behalf and claimed the rule as his guardian. She then took a vow of perpetual virginity to avoid having to take a husband.

Under her leadership the court became a pious one. Her brother proved a weak ruler and Pulcheria continued to guide affairs. On his death Pulcheria ruled the empire alone for a month. Due to her sex she was not considered suitable as a ruler and she was forced, despite her vow of chastity, to marry a husband to share the rule. Her husband was made to swear that he would respect her vow and the marriage was never consummated..

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