Harem politics refers to the complex social and political dynamics within the royal harem, particularly in historical contexts like the Ottoman Empire. The harem was not just a living space for women; it was a center of power where concubines, wives, and female relatives of the ruler vied for influence and favor. Their relationships and rivalries could significantly impact political decisions and succession. Women in the harem often engaged in strategic alliances, using their connections to gain power for themselves or their children. The most prominent figures, such as the Sultan's favorite or the mother of the heir, could wield considerable influence, shaping the course of governance and diplomacy through their relationships with the ruler.