Georgian history is marked by its rich cultural heritage and strategic location at the crossroads of Europe and Asia. The Kingdom of Georgia emerged in the early Middle Ages, flourishing during the 11th to 13th centuries under the reign of Queen Tamar, known for her leadership and the Golden Age of Georgian culture. In the following centuries, Georgia faced invasions from various empires, including the Ottoman Empire and the Persian Empire. It eventually became part of the Russian Empire in the 19th century. After a brief period of independence following the Russian Revolution, Georgia was incorporated into the Soviet Union until regaining independence in 1991.