Kandake facts for kids

A carving showing Kandake Amanitore

Kandake (also spelled kadake or kentake) was an important title for powerful queens in the ancient African kingdom of Kush. This kingdom was located in what is now Sudan. The word "Kandake" comes from the Meroitic language, which was spoken in Kush.

Sometimes, the title was written as Candace in ancient Greek and Roman writings. This is why the name Candace is still used today. It even appears in the New Testament of the Bible.

Who Were the Kandakes?

A Kandake was usually the sister of the king of Kush. In Kush, the royal family followed a special rule called matrilineal succession. This meant that the next king would be the son of the king's sister. So, the Kandake was very important because she would be the mother of the next ruler. This made her a powerful queen mother.

Kandakes were not just mothers; they were strong leaders. They had their own royal court, which was like their own group of advisors and helpers. They likely owned land and played a big role in running the kingdom. Sometimes, a Kandake would even rule the kingdom herself as a regent. This means she would govern until the young king was old enough to take over.

Powerful Kandake Queens

Many Kandakes were known for their strength and leadership. They often led armies and defended their kingdom. These queens were respected and feared by their enemies.

• Kandake Amanirenas was a famous queen who ruled around 20 BC. She led her armies against the powerful Roman Empire. She even fought against the Roman general Aelius Gallus. Amanirenas was known for her bravery and for protecting her people.
• Kandake Amanishakheto ruled after Amanirenas. She was also a very wealthy and powerful queen. Her tomb was discovered with many beautiful gold jewels. These treasures show how rich and important the Kandakes were.
• Kandake Amanitore was another strong queen. She ruled Kush with her husband, King Natakamani. Together, they built many temples and pyramids. The pyramid of Amanitore can still be seen in modern-day Sudan.

The Legacy of Kandakes

The Kandakes show that women held very important positions in ancient Kush. They were not just queens; they were military leaders, builders, and rulers. Their stories remind us of the powerful women who shaped history in Africa.

Images for kids

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  The Baptism of Queen Candace's Eunuch (c. 1625–30, attributed to Hendrick van Balen and Jan Brueghel the Younger)

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  Jewellery of Kandake Amanishakheto, from her tomb

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  Pyramid of Amanitore in modern day Sudan

See also

In Spanish: Kandake para niños