Number ten - Marilyn Monroe
Marilyn Monroe is an enduring symbol of glamour, Hollywood, America and beauty, and her legacy is stronger today than ever before. Her images are ubiquitous all over the world, and her distinctive style has certainly become legendary.
Number nine - Jane Austen
Jane Austen is the biggest selling female author of all time, and her influence on literature has been humongous. For centuries people have debated her work and her intent, and that debate is still ongoing. She is a pop culture force, with her novels spawning countless adaptations, and - in the minds of most people - she is synonymous with the Georgian era.
Number eight - Queen Elizabeth II
Queen Elizabeth II has reigned over much of the world for over sixty years, and during that time things have changed immensely, but she has remained a global figure known to all. A symbol of tradition, elegance, and grace, the legend of Liz continues to captivate millions.
Number seven - Mother Theresa
In a complicated world, Mother Theresa taught everyone how important fundamental kindness is. She is a symbol of compassion, charity and piousness, and is arguably the most inspirational figure on the list.
Number six - Pocahontas
Although many will know more about the Disney film than her tragic true tale, Pocahontas is a legendary name which will come to mind whenever one thinks about powerful women throughout history.
Number five - Joan of Arc
Joan of Arc epitomises heroism, patriotism and might in a way which nobody else could hope to do. This French martyr has inspired not only the hearts of millions, but the minds of great film producers, writers, musicians and artists, all contributing to one of history's great legendary figures.
Number four - Marie Antoinette
Luxury, glamour, cake, tea, macaroons, hair, parties - Marie Antoinette was possibly the original wild child. Her legend epitomises 18th century France, and has inspired various adaptations, with her fashion perhaps being the most influential of all.
Number three - Queen Elizabeth I
Queen Elizabeth I is a truly compelling legend - the virgin queen who rose up and led her country to victory. She is a symbol of feminism and strength, not to mention one of the most powerful and important women ever to have lived.
Number two - Cleopatra
Although we can never know much about her, the legend of Cleopatra has grown for thousands of years, popularised and renewed by the likes of William Shakespeare and Elizabeth Taylor. Although historically relevant as the last active Pharaoh of Egypt, it is the fantasy of a beautiful, powerful leader which has made her an enduring symbol.
Number one - Queen Victoria
The Victorian era saw humanity's most rapid and radical transformation. The world was industrialised, values changed, culture changed, countries were conquered, the modern world was created, and this all happened under the eye of Queen Victoria. She is, quite simply, the most powerful woman ever to have lived.
