Muslim Women: Past and Present

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Throughout the ages, from the earliest days of Islam to contemporary times today, Muslim women have been and continue to be active leaders in their communities and countries across the world. This directory is a growing archive of leading Muslim women scholars, activists, writers, politicians, artists, religious and spiritual leaders, civil society leaders and more. Please contribute to this archive by suggesting Muslim women to be featured through our recommendation form.

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Mihrimah Sultan

Known For: Only daughter of Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent by Hürrem Sultan
Country: Turkey

About

Mihrimah Sultana, the only daughter of Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent by Hürrem (also called Roxelana), wielded great political power. She and her mother were an important part of the ruling circle that influenced the sultan’s decisions, particularly those concerning the succession of the sultanate. Mihrimah, like her mother, was known to write letters to the king of Poland and she encouraged her father to launch a campaign against Malta, promising to build 400 galleys at her own expense.

Mihrimah married Rüstem Papa, the governor-general of Diyarbakir, who served as grand vizier from 1544-1553 and 1555-1561. The gap in Rüstem’s service is attributed to the murder of Mustafa, the sultan’s eldest surviving son. According to Ottoman historians, Mihrimah, Rüstem, and Hürrem conspired to bring about Mustafa’s demise because he stood in the way of Mihrimah’s influence over her father.

Whether or not this assertion is true, the sultan faced negative public opinion following the murder of Mustafa and open protest from the army. He was forced to replace Rüstem as grand vizier with Kara Ahmed Pasha, a war hero and favorite of the army.  But within two years under pressure from Hürrem and the inner circle, Kara Ahmed was eliminated and Rüstem resumed his duties as grand vizier, keeping the office until his death in 1561. 1

 

[1] Woman Muslim Leaders Throughout the Times.

 

Sources

Woman Muslim Leaders Throughout the Times.

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This search feature will enable you to find Muslim women leaders by entering the keyword(s) of your choice. If you cannot find a particular woman that you are looking for, please let us know by completing our “Recommend Muslim Women” form and check the site again in the near future as we actively expand this section of the portal with your suggestions.