Empress Irene was a Byzantine ruler who reigned from 797 to 802 AD. She is notable for being the first woman to hold the title of Empress in her own right. Irene initially served as regent for her son, Constantine VI, but later took full control of the empire after deposing him. Her reign is marked by efforts to restore the veneration of icons, which had been banned during the Iconoclast controversy. Irene's rule was characterized by political intrigue and conflict. She faced opposition from various factions within the empire, including the military and the aristocracy. In 802, she was overthrown in a coup led by Nikephoros I, who became the new emperor. Despite her controversial reign, Irene remains a significant figure in Byzantine history.