Hatshepsut

Hatshepsut was an ancient Egyptian pharaoh. She ruled around 1478 to 1458 BC. She was one of the few women to become pharaoh. She was one of Egypt's most successful rulers.

Early Life

Hatshepsut was the daughter of Pharaoh Thutmose I. She married her half-brother Thutmose II, as was common for Egyptian royalty. After he died, she became regent for her young stepson. She soon declared herself pharaoh.

An ancient Egyptian jar with the name of Queen Hatshepsut.
An ancient Egyptian jar with the name of Queen Hatshepsut. (Osama Shukir Muhammed Amin FRCP(Glasg) / Wikimedia Commons)

Big Achievements

Hatshepsut ruled Egypt for about 20 years. She built impressive temples and monuments. She sent trading expeditions to faraway lands. Egypt was peaceful and prosperous under her rule. She sometimes wore a false beard to show her authority as pharaoh.

Fun Facts

  • Hatshepsut wore a false beard, a traditional symbol of pharaoh power.
  • She built one of the most beautiful temples in Egypt at Deir el-Bahri.
  • After her death, someone tried to erase her name and images from history.

Did You Know?

After Hatshepsut died, her stepson Thutmose III tried to erase her from history. He had her name and images chipped off monuments. But archaeologists discovered the truth, and she is now recognized as one of Egypt's greatest rulers.