1 Queen Hatshepsut ruled Egypt over 3,500 years ago. There were no wars during her time as a ruler, and the people of her country admired and worshipped her. She was one of the greatest rulers in history.

 

2 At that time, women didn’t have the same rights as men, and were certainly not recognized as being able to rule a country. So how did she, Hatshepsut, become queen? Could it be because this Queen, the Pharaoh of Egypt, dressed like a man?

 

3 Thutmose I was the Pharaoh until he passed away. The title then moved to Thutmose II, the oldest son. Hatshepsut married him, giving her the title of Queen. The two ruled the country together. A few years later, Thutmose II passed away. She lost power as a Queen as a result of his death. The next brother, Thutmose III, was only 10 years old. In order for him to be Pharaoh, he needed a regent. Queen Hatshepsut took on that role and ruled in his place. She decided to dress and act like a man –even wearing a false beard – and made herself the Pharaoh.

 

4 Queen Hatshepsut accomplished many things during her reign. Her focus was on the people of Egypt, making efforts to improve their lives rather than trying to expand the country, as other rulers had done. She built temples and monuments throughout Egypt, and created peace within the country and with other countries.

 

5 One major achievement she completed as a ruler was a trade exploration. Egyptians set sail to the Land of Punt, acquiring numerous goods and rare items. This African kingdom, now known as Somalia, was home to spices, gold, perfumes, and rare animal skins and feathers that the Egyptians brought back to the Pharaoh. The area wasn’t explored much, and traveling there and back meant risking much danger, making the exploration a historical moment for Queen Hatshepsut and for the country of Egypt.

 

6 The end of Queen Hatshepsut’s reign was not as “unique” as its beginning. Although she sought peace and a better life for the Egyptians, she and her country were constantly threatened. Thutmose III was one of those who created tension. As he got older, he wanted the throne and was determined to be the Pharaoh. At some point, Queen Hatshepsut apparently disappeared, and Thutmose III became Pharaoh. The legend suggests she was murdered by Thutmose III so he could “rightfully” regain the throne.