The New Kingdom was the beginning of Egypt’s reunion. An ancient Egyptian King, Ahmose I was the founder of the 18th dynasty which represented one of the most impressive periods in Egyptian history. The 18th dynasty began with the expulsion of the Hyksos, successfully defeating the Nubians and at last, claiming back the territory captured for Egypt by Pharaohs of the 12th dynasty. One of The New Kingdom pharaoh was Hatshepsut. Hatshepsut was preceded by several important and seemingly influential queens who have had some control over the government of Egypt in the 17th dynasty. Succeeded by each other, they had an impact on the general aspect of an Egyptian women as powerful and were able to maintain stability and order. These queens encouraged Hatshepsut, who was said to be the most powerful and the greatest female to hold the title of Pharaoh in ancient Egypt. The Role of Hatshepsut as a female pharaoh throughout the 18th Dynasty in Egyptian society was vital for the ultimate construction of Egypt as a major imperial power and the overall greatness of Egypt. Hatshepsut’s reign from 1473 and 1458 B.C. was one of the most prosperous periods for ancient Egyptian society. Unlike the previous male pharaohs, her foreign policy was peaceful and saw a time of great prosperity for the economy and architecture furthermore it was a time of advancement in the arts. The results of her achievements during her reign expanded and flourished Egypt. The great reign of Hatshepsut lasted for twenty-two years, and paved the way for Thutmose III, who was able to engage in the repossession of the throne.
Background: Hatshepsut was born in 1503 B.C. Being the daughter of the remarkable pharaoh Thutmose I and Queen Ahmose, both of royal lineage, Hatshepsut was presumably born into power. Due to the passing away of her brothers, it was her responsibility to gain the throne upon her fathers’ death. When Thutmose I died his only remaining son (to a commoner), Thutmose II logically assumed power. However, to legitimize his position in power as pharaoh, he married his half-sister Hatshepsut. They only had a daughter, Neferure, but no son. Thutmose II died in B.C.E., 15 years after becoming pharaoh, leaving the throne to his son, Thutmose III, born to a lesser harem queen. Unfortunately, he was still young. Customary, it was necessary for Hatshepsut to become regent until Thutmose III became of age. ADD MORE!!!!!!
Rise to power: The unusual circumstances of Hatshepsut coming into power are what made her reign so remarkably fascinating. As a female, to become a pharaoh was unprecedent. However, she emphasized her political right to the throne by publicizing the story that her father, Thutmose I, chose her as his successor. These claims of Hatshepsut being named heir to the throne may have been proven to be propaganda to justify her accession as pharaoh when Thutmose II died. Hatshepsut was able to legitimize her assumed power by depicting she was chosen by the gods, however this can be attested with the likelihood of trickery to swathe her insecurities as a woman in a civilization governed by men. Such scenes from these claims have been carved at her temple Deir el Bahri, particularly in the Middle Colonnade. This evidence was an important aspect of Hatshepsut’s bid for throne along with key courtier’s support which was necessary to establish the bureaucracy and the vast civil services. These supporters may have been established from her father and husband’s administrations in the Amun Priesthood, where she was already well known as God’s wife Amun. In 1473, she declared herself as pharaoh and adopted several male attributes including a fake beard, male clothing, as well as having herself illustrated and treated like a man. This was to show authority to foreign rulers, respect to tradition and a way to gain acceptance among the population. Hatshepsut’s architectural achievements were the defining characteristic of her reign and therefore were her most important contribution to the greatness of Egypt. Additionally, by Hatshepsut investing money into the beautification of her country, it allowed for a politically stable environment which in term would eventually help Thutmose III
