Nzinga of Ndongo

Nzinga formed an alliance with the Dutch West India Company to fight against Portuguese colonial forces in Angola. The alliance allowed her to recapture territory and strengthen her position, though the Dutch later withdrew.

Nzinga's forces, aided by Dutch allies, defeated Portuguese troops at the Battle of Kombi. This victory allowed her to regain control of parts of Ndongo and Matamba, demonstrating her military leadership.

Nzinga signed a peace treaty with Portugal, recognizing Portuguese sovereignty over some areas while securing her rule over Matamba. The treaty ended decades of warfare and allowed her to focus on internal development.

Nzinga died in 1663 at the age of 80, having ruled for nearly 40 years. Her resistance against Portuguese colonization made her a symbol of African resistance, and her legacy inspired later anti-colonial movements.