Ramses II: The Great Builder Pharaoh of Ancient Egypt

Ramses II: The Great Builder Pharaoh of Ancient Egypt

Introduction

Ramses II, also known as Ramses the Great, is one of the most famous pharaohs of Ancient Egypt. His reign, which spanned 66 years from 1279-1213 BC during the New Kingdom period, is marked by extensive building programs, military campaigns, and a focus on domestic prosperity. This report will delve into the life and achievements of Ramses II.

Section 1: Early Life and Ascension

Ramses II was the third pharaoh of the Nineteenth Dynasty. His father, Seti I, prepared him for kingship at an early age. By the time he was ten, Ramses was already a captain in the army. Upon his father's death, Ramses II ascended to the throne and embarked on several military campaigns to restore Egypt's borders and suppress rebellious territories.

Section 2: Military Achievements

One of Ramses II's most famous military campaigns was the Battle of Kadesh against the Hittites. Although the battle ended in a stalemate, Ramses portrayed it as a significant victory in his inscriptions and monuments. This battle led to one of the world's first recorded peace treaties between Egypt and the Hittites.

Section 3: Building Programs

Ramses II's reign is particularly noted for its extensive building programs. He constructed more monuments and statues than any other pharaoh. Among his most famous architectural contributions are the Ramesseum, his mortuary temple, and the Abu Simbel temples, which were carved into a mountainside. These structures not only demonstrated his power and divine status but also played a role in the religious and economic life of the country.

Section 4: Death and Legacy

Ramses II died in his 90s, an extraordinary age for his time. He was buried in the Valley of the Kings, but his mummy was later moved to a royal cache for protection and was discovered in the 19th century. His well-preserved mummy revealed that he was a tall, red-haired man, and showed signs of arthritis and poor dental health.

Conclusion

Ramses II's long reign, military achievements, and prolific building activities have cemented his legacy as one of Egypt's greatest pharaohs. His monuments have survived millennia, standing as a testament to his ambition and the grandeur of his reign. His mummy and the records from his reign provide valuable insights into the life and times of this remarkable leader.