Answer: Tomyris.
Some extra relevant information:
The only commander to defeat Cyrus the Great in battle was the legendary queen, Tomyris of the Massagetae. Tomyris was known for her remarkable leadership skills and military prowess. She ruled over the nomadic tribes of Central Asia during the 6th century BC.
Cyrus the Great, the founder of the Achaemenid Empire, sought to expand his empire and conquer new territories. He targeted the Massagetae, led by Queen Tomyris. In an attempt to bring the Massagetae under his rule, Cyrus proposed a marriage alliance to Tomyris, which she rejected.
Enraged by the rejection, Cyrus started a war against the Massagetae. The battle that ensued was fierce, but it was Tomyris who ultimately emerged as the victor. Her strategic military tactics and the bravery of her warriors led to the defeat of Cyrus’s forces.
Tomyris displayed exceptional leadership skills as she outmaneuvered and outsmarted Cyrus. It is said that after the battle, Tomyris ordered the beheading of Cyrus and dipped his head in a container filled with human blood, symbolizing her vengeance for the death of her son, whom Cyrus had killed during the war.
The victory of Tomyris over Cyrus the Great showcased her resilience, determination, and strategic thinking. It solidified her reputation as a formidable commander and a fierce defender of her people’s independence.
Tomyris’s triumph over one of history’s greatest conquerors remains an inspiring tale of courage and resilience. Her legacy as the only commander to defeat Cyrus the Great is a testament to the strength and tenacity of female leaders throughout history.