Queen Ranavalona the First ruled the large Indian Ocean island of Madagascar from 1788–1861. She is best known for being defiant against European colonialism, but is also said to have ruled as a dictator, often persecuting those who opposed her regime.

Her 33 year reign mainly consisted of preserving the political and cultural sovereignty of Madagascar in the face of European colonialism while creating a self-sufficient state for the good of her people. This led to her being viewed as a great sovereign and patriotic leader at heart, while colonists viewed her as a tyrant. It is believed that she was born in 1788 and may have been named Ramavo. It is also believed that she is of Merina descent, which is the island’s largest ethnic group.