Hōjō Masako

Hōjō Masako was a powerful and influential woman in 12th-century Japan, serving as a political advisor and de facto ruler during her husband's and son’s regencies. As a member of the influential Hōjō family, she played a key role in supporting her family's dominance over the Kamakura shogunate. Known for her intelligence, political acumen, and dedication, Masako helped stabilize the government during turbulent times. Her leadership paved the way for the Hōjō family's long-lasting control of Japan's military government, making her an important figure in Japanese history and a symbol of female political influence during her era.