7 Evil (And Terrifying) Women From History

So much for the fairer sex

A photograph of Irma Grese from the Imperial War Museum, 1945 (Wikimedia Commons)

Men are more violent than women, at least on average.

This isn’t a sexist stereotype; it’s biology. Testosterone makes men more competitive, aggressive, and physically powerful.

It’s hardly surprising, therefore, that men are overrepresented when it comes to the history of crime. From twisted serial killers to psychotic dictators, these malicious males have left behind a terrifying legacy.

But it’s important to remember that women can also be violent and villainous. While they may be physically weaker than men, they are still capable of committing horrific acts of evil.

1. Queen Isabella I

A painting of Queen Isabella I by an unknown artist, c. 1490 (Wikimedia Commons)

In the latter half of the fifteenth century, Queen Isabella I ruled over the Spanish kingdoms of Aragon and Castile alongside her husband King Ferdinand II.

Religious tensions were rife during this time. Hostility towards the ‘enemies of Christ’ was a core part of Christian identity, leading to Christian riots against Jews. Fearing for their lives, many Jews were baptized by the Catholic Church but continued to…