Abdallah Ewis: The forgotten queen of Egypt

The forgotten queen of Egypt

The year is 1249 CE. King Louis IX is sailing the Nile, threatening to overthrow the sultan and capture Egypt. Egypt's commanders ask the sultan's wife, Shajar Al-Durr, to report this news to the injured sultan. But they don't know the truth: the sultan is dead, and she is secretly ruling in his stead. Who was this impressive woman? Abdallah Ewis details the reign of the Sultana of Egypt. [Directed by Elahe Baloochi, narrated by Safia Elhillo, music by Stephen LaRosa].

Shajar Al-Durr rose from slavery to seize Egypt’s throne during a crisis and outmaneuvered invading crusaders by keeping her husband’s death secret. Ruling in a time of war, she orchestrated military victories, negotiated the ransom of King Louis IX, and built monuments to cement her legacy. Despite her achievements, her rule faced fierce opposition from political and religious leaders because she was both a former slave and a woman. Her life ended violently, yet her innovative leadership left a lasting mark on Egypt’s history.