What century did the pharaohs live in? Pharaohs who glorified Egypt
The pharaoh played a special role in the life of the Egyptians. This word cannot be translated as king, king or emperor.
The pharaoh was the supreme ruler and at the same time the high priest.
The pharaoh was a god on earth and a god after death. He was treated like a god.
His name was not spoken in vain. The term "pharaoh" itself appeared from the phrase of two Egyptian words per - aa, which meant a great house.
So they spoke about the pharaoh allegorically, so as not to call him by name. According to the beliefs of the Egyptians, the first pharaoh was the god Ra himself. Other gods ruled behind him. Later, the son of Osiris and Isis, the god Horus, appears on the throne. Horus was considered the prototype of all Egyptian pharaohs, and the pharaohs themselves were his earthly incarnation. Every real pharaoh was considered a descendant of both Ra and Horus. The full name of the pharaoh consisted of five parts, the so-called title. The first part of the title was the name of the pharaoh as the incarnation of the god Horus. The second part was the name of the pharaoh as the incarnation of two mistresses - the goddess of Upper Egypt Nekhbet (depicted in the form of a kite) and the goddess of Lower Egypt Wadzhet (in the form of a cobra). Sometimes the "steady manifestation of Ra" was added here. The third part of the name was the name of the pharaoh as "golden Horus. The fourth part included the personal name of the king of Upper and Lower Egypt. For example, the personal name of Pharaoh Thutmose 3 was Men - Kheper - Ra. And finally, the fifth part of the title was what can be roughly translated as patronymic It was preceded by the words "son of Ra", and then followed by the second name of the pharaoh, for example Thutmose - Nefer - Kheper. It was this that usually served as the official name of the pharaoh.
It was also believed that the pharaohs appear from the marriage of the queen, the wife of the pharaoh, with some deity. Kinship in the dynasty of pharaohs was conducted on the maternal side. Not only men ruled - pharaohs.
Queen Hatshepsut is known in history. In all Egyptian temples, the living pharaoh was sung like a god, prayed for his health and well-being. Pharaoh himself addressed the gods with prayers.
In the view of the Egyptians themselves, the pharaoh was presented as a god-man. It was believed that between the gods and the pharaohs there was an unbreakable contract.
According to it, the gods granted the pharaoh longevity, personal well-being and the prosperity of the state, and the pharaoh, for his part, ensured the observance of the cult by the gods, the construction of temples, and the like. He was the only mortal who had access to the gods. Sometimes the pharaoh personally participated in the beginning of agricultural work, which was of a sacred nature. He threw a scroll into the Nile with the order to start flooding, he begins preparing the soil for sowing, he is the first to cut the first sheaf at the harvest festival and offers a thanksgiving sacrifice to the goddess of the harvest, Renenut. In Egypt, there was a constant struggle for the throne of Upper and Lower Egypt. Priests played an important role in it. Sometimes they founded a new dynasty of pharaohs. Often the pharaohs were puppets in the hands of the high priest. The fight went on almost non-stop. With the weakening of the state, separatist sentiments in various regions of Egypt immediately raised their heads.
The pharaoh is the son of a god. His main duty is to bring gifts to the gods and build temples for them.
Ramesses III addressed the gods in this way: “I am your son, created by your hands ... You created perfection for me on earth. I will do my duty in peace. My heart searches tirelessly for what needs to be done for your shrines.” Further, Ramesses III tells which temples he built and which he restored. Each pharaoh built himself a tomb - a pyramid. The pharaoh also appointed governors of the nomes (nomarchs), chief officials, and the chief priest of Amun. During the war, the pharaoh led the army. By tradition, the pharaohs brought trees and shrubs unknown to the Egyptians from distant campaigns. The pharaohs paid great attention to the construction of irrigation systems and personally supervised the construction of canals.
Awards to the best
The pharaohs valued and in every possible way encouraged their commanders and officials, who served as the main support of their power and power and obtained wealth for them. After the campaign, awards were distributed to those who distinguished themselves. Sometimes one person received the reward. In honor of the victory, a great celebration was held. Luxurious gifts were laid out on the tables. Only the highest nobility was allowed to the celebration.
Coronation
The ritual of the coronation of the pharaohs was subject to established rules. But at the same time, there were some differences depending on the day of the ritual. This depended on which god the coronation day was dedicated to. For example, the coronation of Ramesses III took place on the feast of the god Ming, the lord of the desert and fertility. The pharaoh himself led the solemn procession. He appeared in a chair that was carried on a stretcher by the king's sons and senior officials, which was considered a great honor. In front of the stretcher was the eldest son, the heir. The priests carried a censer with incense. The scroll in the hands of one of the priests represented the program of the holiday. Approaching the dwelling of Min, the pharaoh performed the ceremony of incense and libations. Then the queen appeared. Next to her walked a white bull with a solar disk between its horns - a symbolic personification of God. He was also fumigated with incense. The procession sang hymns. The priests carried wooden statues of various pharaohs. Only one of them, the apostate Akhenaten, was forbidden to "appear" at the festival. Pharaoh sent four arrows to each of the cardinal points: in this way he symbolically struck down all his enemies. Under the singing of hymns, the ceremony comes to its final stage: the ruler thanks Ming and brings him gifts. Then the procession withdrew to the pharaoh's palace.
Pharaoh's personal life
The attitude towards wives and families of the pharaohs was different. For example, Akhenaten hardly ever left his palace. He dearly loved his wife, mother and daughters. Reliefs have come down to us that depict his family during walks. They went to the temple together, the whole family even took part in the receptions of foreign ambassadors. If Akhenaten had one wife, then Ramses II had five of them, and they all bore the title of "great royal wife." Considering that this pharaoh ruled for sixty-seven years, that's not much. However, in addition to official wives, he had many more concubines. From those and others he left 162 offspring.
Dwelling of eternity
No matter how important the cares of life, the pharaoh had to think in advance what his dwelling of eternity would be like. The construction of even a small pyramid was not an easy task. Granite or alabaster blocks suitable for this were only in two places - on the Giza and Saqqara plateaus. Later, for the repose of the pharaohs in the Theban mountains, they began to cut down entire halls, connected by passages.
The main thing in the funeral ceremony was the sarcophagus. The pharaoh personally visited the workshop where the sarcophagus was made for him, and meticulously watched the work. He cared not only about the place of burial, but also about the items that would accompany him in the afterlife. The richness and variety of utensils is amazing. Indeed, in the world of Osiris, the pharaoh had to continue his usual life.
On the last journey
The funeral of the pharaoh was a special spectacle. The relatives sobbed and wringed their hands in sorrow. Undoubtedly, they sincerely mourned the departed. But it was considered that this was not enough. Specially invited professional mourners and mourners, who were excellent actors. Having smeared their faces with silt and stripped to the waist, they tore their clothes, sobbed, moaned and beat themselves on the head. The funeral procession symbolized the migration from one house to another.
In the other world, the pharaoh should not have needed anything. In front of the procession were pies, flowers and jugs of wine. Funeral furniture, armchairs, beds followed, as well as personal items, utensils, boxes, canes and much more.
A long line of jewels concluded the procession. And here is the mummy of the pharaoh in the tomb. The wife falls to her knees and wraps her arms around him. And at this time, the priests perform an important mission: they place “trismus” on the tables - bread and mugs of beer. Then they put an adze, a cleaver in the shape of an ostrich feather, a model of a bull's leg, a palette with two curls on the edges: these items are needed to eliminate the effects of embalming and give the deceased the opportunity to move.
After performing all the rites, the mummy plunges into a stone "grave" in order to move to a better world and lead a new life.
The ancient Egyptians did not call their rulers "Pharaohs". This word was used by the Greeks and Jews. Science cannot indicate the exact number of rulers of Ancient Egypt, since the history of this great civilization is quite broken and there were cases when several kings ruled at the same time in different regions.
Predynastic period
II dynasty of ancient Egypt
3890 - 2686 BC.
Hetepsekheivi (Hotepsehemvi)
Reneb (Nebra)
Ninetjer (Ninetjer)
Peribsen (Set - Peribsen)
Khasezemvi
Ancient Kingdom of Egypt
Ancient Egypt and Danshur are built during this period.
III dynasty of ancient Egypt
Sanakhte (Nebka) 2650 - 2630 BC.
Netderikhet (Djoser) 2630 - 2611 BC.
Sekhemkhet (Djoser Teti) 2611 - 2603 BC.
Khaba 2603 - 2599 BC.
599 - 2575 BC.
IV dynasty of ancient Egypt
Snefru 2575 - 2551 BC.
2551 - 2528 BC.
Djedefre 2528 - 2520 BC.
Khafre (Chephren) 2520 - 2494 BC.
Mikerin (Mikerin) 2490 - 2472 BC.
Shepseskaf 2472 - 2467 BC.
5th dynasty
Userkaf 2465 - 2458 BC.
Sahure 2458 - 2446 BC.
Neferirkare Kakai 2477-2467 BC.
Shepeseskare Ini 2426 - 2419 BC.
Neferefre 2419 - 2416 BC.
Menkauhor 2422 - 2414 BC.
Djedkare Izezi 2375 - 2345 BC.
6th dynasty
Teti 2345 - 2333 BC.
Pepi I (Meryr) 2332 - 2283 BC.
Merenra Nemtiemzaf 2283 2278 BC.
Pepi II (Neferkare) 2278 - 2184 BC.
First transitional period
This time was very disturbing in the history of Ancient Egypt. Power was divided among several kings. Montihotep established his own order in the capital of Thebes.
VII-VIII Dynasties of Ancient Egypt
(2150 - 2135 BC)
Netrikare
menkare
Neferkare II
Neferkare III
Djedkare II
Neferkare IV
merenhor
Menkamin
Nicare
Neferkare V
Neferkahor
Neferkare VI
Neferkamin II
ibi
Neferkaure
Neferkauhor
Neferirkare II
Vajekaire
Sekhemkare
Iti
Isu
Yitenu
IX - X Dynasties of Ancient Egypt
2135 - 1986 BC.
Neferkare
Several kings named Kheti
Mary - Hathor
XI dynasty
Iniotef I (Sekhertavi) 2134 - 2117
Iniotef I (Wahankh) 2117 - 2068
Iniotef I (Nakhtnebtepnefer) 2069 - 2060
This period in the history of Ancient Egypt was marked by the rapid development of foreign trade and large construction projects. Jewelry manufacturing technology was developed. The country's prosperity lasted for quite a long time, but the problems of Egypt's domestic policy became apparent.
Mentuhotep II 2055 -2004
Mentuhotep III (Sankhkare) 2004 - 1992
Mentuhotep IV (Nebtavire) 1992 - 1987
XII dynasty of ancient Egypt
Senusserta I (Kheperkare) 1956 - 1911
Amenemhet II (Nubkaure) 1911 - 1877
Senusret II (Hakheperre) 1877 - 1870
Senusret III (Jakare) 1836 - 1817
Amenemhat III (Nimaatre) 1817 - 1772
Amenemhat IV (Maakherure) 1772 - 1763
Neferusobek (Sobekkare) 1763 - 1759
Second transitional period
The Hiksons invaded the territory of Ancient Egypt and conquered it. Part of the Theban princes seized power. At the end of the XIII Dynasty, the pharaoh of Kamose returned power to the Egyptian kings.
XIII dynasty of ancient Egypt
Wegaf 1783-1779
Amenemhat - Senebef
Sezemre - Khutavi
Amenemhat V
Sehetepibre
Yufni
Amenemhat VI
Semenkar
Sehetepibre II
Sevajkare
Nedjemibre
Sobekhotep
Reniseneb
Nor
Amenemhat VII
Sobekhotep II
Hanger
Ymir - Mesha
Antef IV
Set
Sobekhotep III
Neferhotep 1696 - 1686
Sihator 1685 - 1685
Sobekhotep IV 1685 - 1678
Sobekhotep V 1678 - 1674
Jaib 1674 - 1664
Ay 1664 - 1641
ini
Sevajti
ined
hori
Sobekhotep VI
Dedumes
Ibi II
Nor II
Senebmui
Sehanre
merkheperre
Merikare
XIV Dynasty of Ancient Egypt
Nehesi
Hatire
Nebfaure
Sekhabre
Merijefare
Sevajkare
Heribre
Sanjibre
Kanefertemre
Neferiber
Ankhkara
XV Dynasty of Ancient Egypt
Salitis
Apahnan (Khian)
Apophis (Auserre Apepi)
Hamoudi
XVI dynasty of ancient Egypt
Anat - Kher
User - Anat
Semken
Zaket
Baka
cap
Pepi III
bebanh
Nebmaatra
Nicare II
Aahotepre
Aaneterire
Nibahre
Nubuserre
Hauserre
Hammure
Jacob - Baal
Yakbam
Yoam
Amu
XVII Dynasty
Antef V
Rahotep
Sobekemzaf
Dzhehuti
Mentuhotep VII
Nebiau
Nebiau II
Semenenr
Sobekemzaf II
Antef VI
Antef VII
Tao (Senakhtenre)
Tao II (Sekenenre)
Kamosa (Wajkheperre)
new kingdom
This period saw a flourishing and renaissance of the arts and grand building projects. By the end of the reign of the 19th dynasty of the pharaohs of ancient Egypt, the forces of the priesthood are gaining strength and actually govern the state. Under the XX dynasty, the tombs of the rulers are plundered by officials. Priests begin to acquire secular power.
XVIII dynasty of ancient Egypt
Ahmose (Nebrekhtire) 1539 - 1514
Amenhotep I (Jeserkare) 1514 - 1493
Thutmose I (Akheperkare) 1493 - 1481
Thutmose II (Akherepenre) 1491 - 1479
1473 — 1458
Thutmose III (Menkheperre) 1504 - 1450
Amenhotep II (Akheperure) 1427 - 1392
Thutmose IV (Menkheperure) 1419 - 1386
Amenhotep III (Nebmaatre) 1382 - 1344
1350 — 1334
Smenkhkare (Ankhekhperure) 1336-1334
1334 — 1325
Ay (Kheperkheperure) 1325 - 1321
Horemhebe (Jeserkheperure) 1323 - 1295
XIX dynasty
Ramesses I (Menpekhtire) 1295 - 1294
Seti I (Menmaatre) 1394 - 1279
1279 — 1213
Merepnptah (Baenrekhotehirmaat) 1213 - 1203
Amenmesse (Menmire) 1203 - 1200
Seti II (Userkheperuresetepenre) 1200 - 1194
Siptah (Ahenresetepenre) 1194 - 1188
Tausert (Sitremeritamun) 1185-1187
XX Dynasty of Ancient Egypt
Setakht (Userhaumeriamun) 1186 - 1184
Ramesses III (Usermaatremeriamun) 1184 - 1153
Ramesses IV (Hekamaamremetepenamun) 1153 - 1147
Ramesses V (Useermaatresekheperenre) 1147 - 1143
Ramesses VI (Nebmaamtpemeriamun) 1143 - 1136
Ramses VII (Usepmaamresetepenre) 1136 - 1129
Ramesses VIII (Usermaamtrihenamun) 1129 - 1126
Ramesses IX (Neferkaresetepenre) 1126 - 1108
Ramesses X (Khepermaamtresetepenre) 1108 - 1099
Ramesses XI (Menmaamtremetepenrtah) 1099 - 1069
Third transitional period
The capital of Ancient Egypt was moved to and then back to Thebes.
XXI dynasty of ancient Egypt
Rulers of Upper and Southern Egypt in Thebes:
Smedes (1070 - 1044) Herihor (1080 - 1074)
Amenemnisu (1040) Piankh (1074 - 1070)
Psusennes (1040 - 992) Pinedjem (1070 - 1032)
Amenope (993 - 984) Masakherta (1054 - 1046)
Osochor (984 - 978) Menkheperre (1045 - 992)
Siamun (978 - 959) Smendes II (992 - 990)
Psusennes II (959 - 945) Pinedjem II (990 - 969)
Psusennes III (969-945)
XII dynasty of ancient Egypt
Sheshenq I 945-924
Osorkona 924-909
Takelot 909 (?)
Sheshonkom II 883
Osorkon II 883-855
Takelot II 860-835
Sheshonkom III 835-783
Pami 783-773
Sheshonkom IV 773-735
Osorkon IV 735-712
XXIII dynasty of ancient Egypt
Pedubaste 828-803
Osorkon IV 777-749
Pefjauvibast 740-725
XXIV Dynasty of Ancient Egypt
Shepsespe Tefnacht 725-720
Wahkare Bakenranif 720-715
Later Kingdom of Ancient Egypt
The Assyrians invade ancient Nubia. The Greeks are trying to restore order. During the XXV dynasty, there is a return to the old style of government in ancient Egypt.
XXV Dynasty of Ancient Egypt
Piye 747-716
Shebaka 712-698
Shebitku 698-690
Taharqa 690-664
Tantamani 664-657
XXVI Dynasty of Ancient Egypt
Psammetich I (Psam - Tik) 664-610
Nekau (Necho) II 610-595
Psammetich II 595-589
Apries 589-570
Amasis 570-526
Psammetich III 526-525
XXVII Dynasty of Ancient Egypt
Cambyses 525-522
Darius I 521-486
Xerxes I 486-466
Artaxerxes I 465-424
Darius II 424-404
XXVIII dynasty of ancient Egypt
Amirtaios 404-399
XXIX dynasty of ancient Egypt
Neferites 399-393
Psammutis 393
Nakoris 393-380
Neferites II 380
XXX dynasty
The last pharaohs of Egyptian origin
Nectaneb 380-362
Theos 365-360
Nectaneb II 360-343
Second Persian period (343-332 BC)
XXXI dynasty
Founder Manetho
Ox (Artaxerxes III) 343-338
Asses 338-336
Darius III Codomannus 335-332
Greco-Roman period (332 BC - 395 AD)
Macedonian kings in ancient Egypt
Alexander the Great 332-323
Philip Arrhyraus 323-316
Alexander IV 316-304
Ptolemaic dynasty
Ptolemy I Soter I 323-285
Ptolemy II Philadelphus 282-246
Ptolemy III Euergeter i 246-222
Ptolemy IV Philopator 222-205
Ptolemy V Epiphanes 205-180
Ptolemy VI Philometor 180-164 163-145
Ptolemy VII Neos 145 Philopator
Ptolemy VIII Euergetes II 170-163 and 116-145
Cleopatra and Ptolemy III IX Soter II 116-107 and 80 - 88
Cleopatra III and Ptolemy X Alexander I 107 - 88
Cleopatra Berenice 81 - 80
Ptolemy XI Alexander II 80
Ptolemy XII Neos Dionysus 80 - 58 and 55 - 51
Berenice IV 58 - 55
Cleopatra VII and Ptolemy XIII 51 - 47
Cleopatra and Ptolemy XIV 47 - 44
and Ptolemy XV Caesarion 44 - 30 BC
Roman Emperors in Ancient Egypt
August 30 BC - 14 AD
Tiberius 14 - 37
Guy Caligula 37 - 41
Claudius 41 - 54
Nero 54 - 68
Galba 68 - 69
Oton 69
Vitellius 69
Vespasian 69 - 79
Titus 79 - 81
Domitian 81 - 96
Nerves 96 - 98
Trajan 98 - 117
Adrian117 — 138
Antoninus Pius 138 - 161
Marcus Aurelius 161 - 180
Lucius Verruss
Chest 180 - 192
Pertinax 193
Didius Julianus 193
Septimius Sever 193 - 211
Caracalla 211 - 217
Macrinus 217-218
Heliogabala 218 - 222
Alexander Sever 222 - 235
Maximin 235 - 238
Pupienus 238
Gordian 238 - 244
Philip 244 - 249
Decius 249 - 251
Gallus 251 - 253
Valerianus 253 - 260
Galliena 260 - 268
Claudius II 268 - 270
Aurelian 270 - 275
Tacitus 275 - 276
Florianus 276
Sample 276 - 282
Karus 282 - 283
Numerianus 283 - 284
Diocletian 284 - 305
Gallery 305 - 311
Licinium 308 - 324
Byzantine Christian period
The reign of the Coptic patriarchs began with the reign of Constantine I.
Ancient Egypt keeps many secrets that are of interest to a huge number of people around the world. The irrigation system, stone processing, the invention of the mirror - all these discoveries were made in the ancient Egyptian era. At the head of each of them was the unlimited power of the master of the country - the pharaoh.
Origin of the term "pharaoh"
The word "pharaoh" itself comes from the Egyptian "Per-aa", which means "magnificent house". So the ancient Egyptians called the palace, which was a sign that distinguishes the pharaoh from other people.
There is an opinion that the rulers did not have the official title of "pharaoh" and were not equated in status with kings or emperors.
The inhabitants of Egypt used this word in order to exclude the pronunciation of the royal name. Basically, the pharaoh was called the ruler of both lands, by which they understood Upper and Lower Egypt, or "belonging to the Reed and the Bee."
Names of pharaohs of ancient Egypt
The names of the pharaohs of ancient Egypt were included in special lists. Today it is difficult to judge the real names of the pharaohs, since each of the sources offers its own pronunciation. First of all, this is due to the existence of many variants of the spelling of the name.
The Egyptians believed that the pharaohs were actually gods, and considered the god Ra to be the first of them. The god Horus, the son of Osiris and Isis, is considered to be the forerunner of the real-life rulers of ancient Egypt. On earth, he ceased in the form of the ruling pharaohs.
In the full version, the name of the pharaoh contained five parts. The first part meant the fact of divine origin. In the second part, the origin of the pharaoh from the goddesses of Upper and Lower Egypt - Nekhbet and Wadzhet was emphasized. The third name was Golden and symbolized the eternity of the existence of the ruler. The fourth name usually indicated the divine origin of the pharaoh. Finally, the fifth or personal name was the one given at birth.
Position of the pharaoh of ancient Egypt
The ancient Egyptians believed that the gods appeared in the image of the pharaoh to their eyes. It was believed that all pharaohs appear as a result of the marriage of the wife of the pharaoh with one of the divine beings. It should be said that not only men, but also women could be pharaohs. An example of this is Queen Hatshepsut.
In everyday life, the pharaoh was often considered a god, odes were dedicated to him, and people prayed for his luck and health. Often the pharaoh himself turned to the gods with prayers. Since ancient times, it was believed that the pharaoh and the gods were connected by special bonds. Receiving longevity, health and well-being as a gift from the gods, the pharaoh in return had to praise them and build temples in their honor.
The pharaoh was the only one who had a direct connection with divine beings. In some cases, he was the first to start and finish agricultural work. So, for example, the pharaoh often prepared himself for sowing, and during the harvest he was honored to cut the first fruits.
Ancient Egypt was a period when the pharaohs enjoyed special reverence. The ruler of Egypt was recognized as the son of the god Ra and was very influential.
An indispensable attribute of the pharaoh was a crown, consisting of two parts, symbolizing the unity of Upper and Lower Egypt. Often the pharaohs carried a cane with them, the upper part of which was made in the form of a dog's or jackal's head. The beard was also a symbol of the power of the pharaoh and emphasized the courageous image of the ruler of Egypt.
The most famous pharaohs of ancient Egypt
The reign of Pharaoh Djoser (2635-2611 BC) is called the golden age in the history of ancient Egypt. Under him, the works of the best scientists invented the solar calendar. In honor of Djoser, a majestic pyramid was erected near the city of Memphis. The pyramid project belonged to the famous architect Imhotep. The pyramid was made in the form of seven steps and lined with white slabs. Extraordinarily beautiful courtyards and temples gave it a special luxury. Later, the talented Imhotep was elevated to the rank of the god of healing.
The first pyramids with smooth walls appeared under Pharaoh Cheops (2551-2528 BC). The pyramids erected in his honor are located in the city of Giza. Due to the fact that the pyramids still continue to amaze with their splendor, they are ranked among the eight wonders of the world.
A large number of workers were involved in the construction of the pyramid. The architect of the pyramid, whose height is 147 meters, was Hemiun. More than 2 million stone slabs were needed for the construction. According to some historians of that time, the construction of the pyramid lasted for 20 years. Such work was exhausting, as a result of which new workers were delivered to the construction site of the pyramids every three months.
Given that the construction of the pyramid took several years, the pharaohs ordered the construction of the pyramid to begin immediately after they became the rulers of Egypt.
The title of the second largest pyramid in Giza was awarded to the pyramid erected during the reign of Pharaoh Khafre. Despite the fact that the height of the pyramid of Khafre was several meters lower than the pyramid of Cheops, its significance is also great. Particularly noteworthy was the erection of a statue of the Great Sphinx next to the pyramid. Nearby is the third largest pyramid, dating back to the years of the reign of Pharaoh Menkaure.
The reign of Ahmose I (1550-1525 BC) was marked by the fact that it was the heyday of such sciences as geometry and astronomy. Ahmose I, thanks to successful military campaigns, significantly increased the territory of Egypt, which became a powerful state in the Middle East.
The highest development of ancient Egypt occurred under Queen Hatshepsut (1489 - 1468 BC). Despite the fact that Hatshepsut was a woman, her reign was not in vain. Like her predecessors, she significantly expanded the borders of Egypt through successful wars, which she herself led. The queen was fond of not only politics, but also architecture. It was on her orders that the Jeser Jeser temple in Deir el-Bahri was erected.
The most significant figure that influenced the boundaries of the territory of ancient Egypt was Pharaoh Thutmose III the Great. Thanks to the development of the art of warfare, he managed to annex such states as Libya, Syria, Palestine, and Phoenicia. Thus, during the reign of Thutmose III, Egypt became a state, which included the lands of Western Asia. It is believed that the success of the Egyptian army brought the use of mercenary troops, as well as war chariots.
Unlike his predecessors, Pharaoh Akhenaten (1364-1347 BC) paid special attention to reforms in the religious sphere. It was under him that the cult of the personality of the pharaoh himself, and not the gods, was introduced. Under Pharaoh Akhenaten, the city of Akhetaten became the capital of Egypt, not dedicated to any of the divine forces. The last step of Pharaoh Akhenaten was the order, according to which it was necessary to stop the construction of all temples.
Akhenaten's innovations were not to the liking of the population of Egypt, as well as his followers. After his death, the significance of all the gods was restored, the temples dedicated to them were rebuilt. The reign of Akhenaten is remembered by the Egyptians from a negative side, and often he is not included in the lists of pharaohs.
The last pharaoh who increased the territory of ancient Egypt is Ramesses II, who is remembered as a conqueror and builder. It was during his reign that Egypt regains its former influence. Under Ramesses II, the construction of many works of art, in particular, monuments, began. During his reign, about 5,000 images of the pharaoh were created, which have survived to this day.
The followers of Ramesses II were unable to maintain the power of ancient Egypt. After the magnificent reign of the pharaohs of the Ramesses dynasty, strife began between the individual territories of ancient Egypt, which was the beginning of the collapse of the great civilization. The power of the pharaohs gradually weakened, and Egypt became a territory conquered by other states.
Conclusion
The activities of each of the pharaohs of ancient Egypt left their mark on history. Each period was marked by its discoveries and achievements.
Undoubtedly, the names of the pharaohs will occupy the pages of the history of antiquity for a long time to come.
The word "pharaoh" owes its origin to the Greek language. It is noteworthy that it was found even in the Old Testament.
Mysteries of history
According to ancient legend, the first pharaoh of Egypt - Menes - later became the most popular deity. However, in general, information about these rulers is rather vague. We can't even claim that they all actually existed. The pre-dynastic period is most fully covered in this respect. Historians identify specific people who ruled Southern and Northern Egypt.
paraphernalia
The ancient pharaohs of Egypt without fail passed the rite of coronation. Memphis was the venue for the traditional solemn action. The new divine rulers received symbols of power from the priests. Among them were a diadem, a scepter, a whip, crowns and a cross. The last attribute was in the shape of the letter "t" and was crowned with a loop, symbolizing life itself.
The scepter was a short wand. Its upper end was curved. This attribute of power came from Such a thing could belong not only to kings and gods, but also to high officials.
Peculiarities
The ancient pharaohs of Egypt, like sons, could not appear before their people with their heads uncovered. The main royal headdress was the crown. There were many varieties of this symbol of power, among which are the White Crown of Upper Egypt, the Red Crown “deshret”, the crown of Lower Egypt, and also the “Pshent” - a double version consisting of the White and Red crowns (symbolized the unity of the two kingdoms). The power of the pharaoh in ancient Egypt even extended to outer space - so strong was the admiration for each heir to the creator of the world. However, it would be wrong to say that all pharaohs were despotic rulers and sole rulers of destinies.
Some ancient images depict the pharaohs of Egypt, whose heads are covered with scarves. This royal attribute was gold with blue stripes. Often a crown was placed on him.
Appearance
According to tradition, the ancient pharaohs of Egypt were clean-shaven. Another external distinguishing feature of the rulers is the beard, which symbolized masculine strength and divine power. It is noteworthy that Hatshepsut also wore a beard, however, a consignment note.
Narmer
This pharaoh is a representative of the 0 or I dynasty. He ruled around the end of the third millennium BC. A plate from Hierakonpolis depicts him as the ruler of the united lands of Upper and Lower Egypt. It remains a mystery why his name is not included in the royal lists. Some historians believe that Narmer and Menes are the same person. Until now, many argue about whether all the ancient pharaohs of Egypt are really non-fictional characters.
Significant arguments in favor of the reality of Narmer are such found objects as a mace and a palette. The oldest artifacts glorify the conqueror of Lower Egypt named Narmer. It is claimed that he was the predecessor of Menes. However, this theory also has its opponents.
Menes
For the first time, Menes became the ruler of an entire country. This pharaoh laid the foundation for the 1st dynasty. Based on archaeological data, it can be assumed that the time of his reign was about 3050 BC. Translated from ancient Egyptian, his name means "strong", "durable".
Traditions dating back to the Ptolemaic era tell that Menes did a lot to unite the northern and southern parts of the country. In addition, his name was mentioned in the chronicles of Herodotus, Pliny the Elder, Plutarch, Elian, Diodorus and Manetho. It is believed that Menes is the founder of Egyptian statehood, writing and cults. In addition, he initiated the construction of Memphis, in which his residence was located.
Menes was famous as a wise politician and an experienced military leader. However, the period of his reign is characterized in different ways. According to some sources, the life of ordinary Egyptians became worse under the reign of Menes, while others note the establishment of worship and temple rites, which testifies to the wise government of the country.
Historians believe that Menes passed away in the sixty-third year of his reign. The culprit of the death of this ruler, as expected, was a hippopotamus. The enraged animal inflicted mortal injuries on Menes.
Chorus Aha
The history of the pharaohs of Egypt would be incomplete without mentioning this glorious ruler. Modern Egyptologists believe that it was Hor Aha who united Upper and Lower Egypt, and also founded Memphis. There is a version that he was the son of Menes. This pharaoh ascended the throne in 3118, 3110 or 3007 BC. e.
During his reign, ancient Egyptian chronicle writing was born. Each year received a special name for the brightest event that took place. So, one of the years of the reign of Hor Aha is called as follows: "the defeat and capture of Nubia." However, wars were not always waged. In general, the period of the reign of this son of the sun god is characterized as peaceful, calm.
The Abydos tomb of the pharaoh Hor Aha is the largest in the northwestern group of similar structures. However, the most pretentious is the Northern Tomb, which is located in Saqqara. It also contained objects carved with the name Hor Akha. For the most part, these are wooden labels and clay seals located on the vessels. On some ivory items, the name Bener-Ib ("sweet in heart") was carved. Perhaps these artifacts brought to us the memory of the pharaoh's wife.
Jer
This son of the sun god belongs to the 1st dynasty. He is supposed to have reigned for forty-seven years (2870-2823 BC). Not all the ancient pharaohs of Egypt could boast of a large number of innovations during their reign. However, Jer was one of the most ardent reformers. It is assumed that he had success in the military field. Researchers found a rock inscription on the west bank of the Nile. It depicts Jer, and in front of him is a captive man kneeling.
The tomb of the pharaoh, located in Abydos, is a large rectangular pit lined with bricks. The crypt was made of wood. Near the main burial site, 338 additional ones were found. It is assumed that servants and women from Djer's harem are buried in them. All of them, as required by tradition, were sacrificed after the burial of the king. Another 269 graves became the place of the last refuge of the nobles and courtiers of the pharaoh.
Den
This pharaoh ruled around 2950 AD. His personal name is Sepati (this became known thanks to the Abydos list). Some historians believe that it was this pharaoh who put on the double crown, symbolizing the unification of Egypt, for the first time. History says that he was the leader of military campaigns on From here it can be concluded that Den was set up for the further expansion of the Egyptian kingdom in this direction.
The pharaoh's mother was in a special position during the reign of her son. This is evidenced by the fact that she rests near the tomb of Den. Such an honor still needed to be awarded. In addition, it is assumed that Hemaka, the keeper of the state treasury, was also a highly respected person. On found ancient Egyptian labels, his name follows the name of the king. This is evidence of the special honor and trust of King Dan, who united Egypt.
The tombs of the pharaohs of that time were not distinguished by special architectural delights. However, the same cannot be said about Dan's tomb. So, an impressive staircase leads to his tomb (it goes to the east, directly towards the rising sun), and the crypt itself is decorated with red granite slabs.
Tutankhamen
The reign of this pharaoh is approximately 1332-1323 BC. e. Nominally, he began to rule the country at the age of ten. Naturally, the real power belonged to more experienced people - the courtier Aye and the commander Horemheb. During this period, the external position of Egypt was strengthened due to the pacification within the country. During the reign of Tutankhamun, the construction was intensified, as well as the restoration of the neglected and destroyed during the reign of the previous pharaoh - Akhenaten - the sanctuaries of the gods.
As was established during the anatomical studies of the mummy, Tutankhamun did not even live to be twenty years old. Two versions of his death are put forward: the fatal consequences of some kind of illness or complications after falling from the chariot. His tomb was found in the notorious Valley of the Kings near Thebes. It was practically not plundered by ancient Egyptian marauders. During the archaeological excavations, a great variety of precious jewelry, clothing items, and works of art were found. Truly unique finds were a bed, seats and a gilded chariot.
It is noteworthy that the aforementioned successors of the king - Eye and Horemheb - tried in every possible way to consign his name to oblivion, classifying Tutankhamun among the heretics.
Ramses I
This pharaoh is believed to have ruled from 1292 to 1290 BC. Historians identify him with Horemheb's temporary worker - a powerful commander and supreme dignitary Paramessu. The honorary position he occupied was as follows: "the head of all the horses of Egypt, the commandant of the fortresses, the caretaker of the Nile entrance, the envoy of the pharaoh, the charioteer of His Majesty, the royal clerk, the commander, the common priest of the Gods of the Two Lands." It is assumed that Pharaoh Ramses I (Ramses) is the successor of Horemheb himself. An image of his magnificent ascension to the throne has been preserved on the pylon.
According to Egyptologists, the reign of Ramesses I is not distinguished by either duration or significant events. He is most often mentioned in connection with the fact that the pharaohs of Egypt, Seti I and Ramesses II, were his direct descendants (son and grandson, respectively).
Cleopatra
This famous queen is a representative of the Macedonian. Her feelings for the Roman commander were truly dramatic. The years of Cleopatra's reign are infamous due to the Roman conquest of Egypt. The obstinate queen was so disgusted with the idea of being a prisoner (of the first Roman emperor) that she chose to commit suicide. Cleopatra is the most popular ancient character in literary works and films. Her reign took place in co-rulership with her brothers, and after that with Mark Anthony, her legal husband.
Cleopatra is considered the last independent pharaoh in ancient Egypt before the Romans conquered the country. She is often mistakenly called the last pharaoh, but this is not so. A love affair with Caesar brought her a son, and with Mark Antony a daughter and two sons.
The pharaohs of Egypt are most fully described in the works of Plutarch, Appian, Suetonius, Flavius and Cassius. Cleopatra, of course, also did not go unnoticed. In many sources, she is described as a depraved woman of extraordinary beauty. For a night with Cleopatra, many were ready to pay with their own lives. However, this ruler was smart and courageous enough to pose a threat to the Romans.
Conclusion
The pharaohs of Egypt (the names and biographies of some of them are presented in the article) contributed to the formation of a powerful state that lasted more than twenty-seven centuries. The fertile waters of the Nile contributed greatly to the rise and improvement of this ancient kingdom. Annual floods perfectly fertilized the soil and contributed to the maturation of a rich crop of grain. Due to the surplus of food, there was a significant increase in the population. The concentration of human resources, in turn, favored the creation and maintenance of irrigation canals, the formation of a large army, and the development of trade relations. In addition, mining, field geodesy and construction technologies were gradually mastered.
The society was controlled by the administrative elite, which was formed by priests and clerks. At the head, of course, was the pharaoh. The deification of the bureaucratic apparatus contributed to prosperity and order.
Today we can say with confidence that Ancient Egypt became the source of the great heritage of world civilization.
