Roman Empresses were the female rulers and consorts of the Roman Empire, often holding significant influence behind the scenes. They were typically the wives or mothers of emperors, such as Livia Drusilla, the wife of Augustus, who played a crucial role in politics and succession. Some empresses, like Julia Domna, actively participated in governance and cultural patronage. While they did not hold formal power, their status allowed them to shape policies and support various social and political initiatives, leaving a lasting impact on Roman society.