However, women participated in such outside affairs in Southeast Asia regularly. In fact, women even managed businesses for their husbands. In addition, royal women had considerable power and, in some cases, were seen as a threat to the king. Among royalty, polygamy was common. Thus, more and more heirs to the throne began to step forward, beginning in the 12th century, backed by aggressive maternal clans.
Vietnamese history incorporates at least two extraordinary women.
Lady Trieu led a strong resistance to Chinese power. She was killed in warfare but her spirit is now worshipped by the Vietnamese. Trung Trac, a woman recognized as queen in Me-linh, had power enough to adjust taxes. Interestingly enough, Trung Trac s mother s tomb and spirit temple have survived over the years but nothing remains of her father. In stark contrast, the witchcraze, instead of honoring powerful, intelligent women like the Trung sisters, accused women of witchcraft.