In the history of powerful women of the Middle Ages, Eleanor of Aquitaine deserves a rightful place. As the Duchess of Aquitaine, she served as the Queen of France (1137–1152) and Queen of England (1154–1189). Furthermore, she lived to see her two sons, Richard I and John, serve as the King of England in their respective tenures. Eleanor was the eldest daughter of the Duke of Aquitaine. Following his untimely death, she inherited the expansive Dukedom of Aquitaine and in turn became the most eligible bride of Europe. In 1137, she married King Louis VII and later became the Queen of France. Personal differences and inability to produce a male heir led to the annulment of her marriage. However, she soon wedded Henry I and became the Queen of England. Unlike former Queens and her contemporaries, Eleanor was extremely bright, intelligent and strong willed. She took part in the administrative and government reforms. Even after being Queen Dowager, she acted as a regent during her son, King Richard I’s absence and administered much of the proceedings. She actively contributed during her second son, King John’s tenure as well. It was only in her final years that she retired from public life as a nun