Born: 11 August 1510, Italy
Died: 28 December 1566
Country most active: Italy
Also known as: Margherita Paleologa
The following bio was written by Emma Rosen, author of On This Day She Made History: 366 Days With Women Who Shaped the World and This Day In Human Ingenuity & Discovery: 366 Days of Scientific Milestones with Women in the Spotlight, and has been republished with permission.
Margaret Paleologa (Margherita Paleologa) was a prominent historical figure known for her significant achievements in the Italian states of Montferrat and Mantua. Born on August 11, 1510, in Casale Monferrato, Italy, she was the daughter of William IX of Montferrat and Anne of Alençon. Margaret’s life took a pivotal turn when she married Federico II Gonzaga, Duke of Mantua, in 1531, after her elder sister’s betrothal to Federico was annulled. This union would define her life and legacy.
Margaret served as the Marquise of Montferrat (a region in northern Italy), a title she inherited in 1533 following the death of her uncle and later secured for her husband in 1536. Following Federico’s untimely death in 1540, Margaret became the regent of Mantua twice during the minority of her sons, Francesco III Gonzaga and Guglielmo Gonzaga. As regent, she implemented policies that benefited Mantua’s economy, improved infrastructure, and strengthened the duchy’s defenses. Despite facing foreign challenges, including French occupation, Margaret’s dedication to her sons and unwavering support for Spanish interests during her regency left a lasting legacy of strong leadership.