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Period: to
Rani Lakshmi Bai (Manikarnika Tambe)
Time Period (Years Active):
• Born: November 19, 1828
• Became Queen: 1853 (after marriage to Maharaja Gangadhar Rao)
• Active leadership: 1853-1858
• Died in battle: June 18, 1858 -
Leadership Role & Achievements:
• Queen (Rani) of the princely state of Jhansi from 1853-1858
• Led Jhansi's forces against the British East India Company during the Indian Rebellion of 1857
• Successfully defended Jhansi against British forces during the initial siege
• Organized and trained her own army, including a women's unit
• Formed strategic alliances with other Indian rulers resisting British rule -
Impact on Society & Women's Leadership:
• Became a powerful symbol of Indian resistance against British colonial rule
• Inspired generations of Indian independence fighters
• Known for her famous declaration "Main apni Jhansi nahi doongi" (I will not surrender my Jhansi)
• Changed perceptions about women in leadership roles during the 19th century
• Her story continues to inspire books, films, and cultural works in India
• Showed exemplary administrative skills in managing her kingdom before the war