History
Hatshepsut: The Woman Who Was King
Discover Hatshepsut, one of history's most powerful female rulers, who presided over a golden age of peace and prosperity in Ancient Egypt.
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What is it?
Hatshepsut was a pharaoh of Egypt's 18th Dynasty, ruling for about two decades in the 15th century BCE. She is one of the most famous and successful female pharaohs. After the death of her husband Thutmose II, she first acted as regent for her young stepson, Thutmose III, before taking the unprecedented step of having herself crowned pharaoh. To legitimize her rule in a traditionally male role, official depictions often showed her with masculine features, including a kilt and a false beard.
Why is it trending?
Hatshepsut's reign is notable for its peace and economic prosperity. She focused on expanding Egypt's wealth through trade rather than military conquest. Her most celebrated achievement was re-establishing trade networks, highlighted by a famous expedition to the Land of Punt which brought vast riches, including incense, gold, and ivory, to Egypt. She was also a prolific builder, commissioning hundreds of construction projects like her magnificent mortuary temple at Deir el-Bahri and the tallest obelisks in the world at the time at Karnak Temple.
How does it affect people?
Hatshepsut's leadership brought stability and wealth to the Egyptian people. Her focus on trade and diplomacy ushered in a prosperous era. The extensive building projects she commissioned would have provided employment for thousands of laborers and artisans, boosting the domestic economy. By prioritizing commerce over conflict, she ensured a period of prolonged peace for her citizens. Her powerful and successful reign challenges traditional views on gender and leadership, leaving a legacy of architectural wonders and a model of peaceful, prosperous governance.