Gudit of Axum (929-1001) was the Queen of Axum from 960 to 1001, succeeding Mahbere-Widam of Axum and preceding Joram I of Axum. Gudit originated in the highlands of Eritrea (Semien), and led an army to conquer Axum. Gudit was credited with killing the emperor of Axum, ascending the throne herself, and reigning for 40 years.
Biography[]
Gudit was the daughter of Duke Gideon IV of Semien, an Ethiopian Jew of the House of Gideon. Gudit's father died in 960, and Gudit became the Duchess of Semien. Gudit proceeded to invade Axum, a powerful Orthodox Christian kingdom located in Ethiopia. Gudit killed Emperor Mahbere-Widam of Axum, ascended the throne, and she burnt the monastery and treasury of Debre Damo, exterminating the Axumite dynasty. Gudit would be the first Queen of Axum from the House of Gideon, starting a new dynasty of rulers for Axum. Gudit reigned for 40 years before dying at the age of 72 in 1001, and she was succeeded by Joram I of Axum.