The sequence of Merina rulers strong enough to be recognized by European governments goes:

K. Andrianampoinimerina, 1787-1810
K. Radama I, 1810-1828
Q. Ranavalona I, 1828-1861
K. Radama II, 1861-1863
Q. Rasoherina, 1863-1868
Q. Ranavalona II, 1868-1883
Q. Ranavalona III, 1883-1887

The enlightened Prime Minister Rainilaiavony married the last 3 queens to stay in power, using his power for such things as introducing compulsory education in 1880.