Haseki Hürrem Sultan (Roxelana)

Roxelana, also known as Hürrem Sultan or Mahidevran, was a prominent figure in the Ottoman Empire during the 16th century. She was a slave girl from what is now Ukraine who was brought to Istanbul and joined the harem of Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent. Roxelana quickly became one of Suleiman's favorite concubines, eventually rising to the position of his legal wife and queen consort. She wielded considerable influence over the Sultan and was involved in politics, diplomacy, and charity work. Known for her intelligence, beauty, and charm, she was often consulted by Suleiman on matters of state. Roxelana's rise to power was unusual for the time, as it was rare for a concubine to become a legal wife and queen consort. Her story has been the subject of many legends and myths over the years, and she has been romanticized in popular culture as a symbol of female power and influence.