Hurrem Sultan, also known as Roxelana, was a prominent figure in the Ottoman Empire during the 16th century. Born in present-day Ukraine, she was captured and brought to the Ottoman court as a slave. Hurrem quickly gained favor with Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent, becoming his legal wife and the first woman to hold the title of Haseki Sultan. As a powerful political figure, Hurrem played a significant role in the empire's affairs. She was known for her intelligence, diplomacy, and influence over Suleiman, contributing to various charitable projects and the construction of significant buildings, including the Suleymaniye Mosque in Istanbul.