Ramses II, also known as Ramses the Great, was the third Pharaoh of the Nineteenth Dynasty of Egypt. He ruled for over sixty years, making him one of the longest-reigning pharaohs in Egyptian history. During his reign, Ramses II oversaw significant military campaigns, expanded the Egyptian empire, and oversaw the construction of numerous buildings and temples. He is considered one of the greatest Pharaohs in Egyptian history, and his legacy continues to be celebrated to this day.
Ramses II was born in 1303 BCE in Ancient Egypt, the son of Pharaoh Seti I and Queen Tuya. He was the second of eleven sons, and his father groomed him from an early age to succeed him as Pharaoh. As a prince, Ramses II received a thorough education in the arts and sciences, as well as in the duties and responsibilities of a Pharaoh. He also received military training and was an accomplished warrior.
Upon his father's death in 1279 BCE, Ramses II ascended to the throne of Egypt. He was just twenty-one years old at the time, but he was well-prepared for the challenges that lay ahead. One of his first tasks as Pharaoh was to secure Egypt's borders and strengthen its military power. He did this by leading several successful military campaigns, including the Battle of Kadesh, a major conflict with the Hittite Empire. This battle ended in a draw, but Ramses II emerged as a strong and respected leader, and the treaty that ended the conflict solidified Egypt's position as a dominant power in the region.
In addition to his military successes, Ramses II is also known for his accomplishments in the arts, sciences, and architecture. He built numerous temples and other buildings throughout Egypt, including the Ramesseum, a temple dedicated to himself and his father. He also commissioned the construction of the Abu Simbel temples, which are considered some of the most impressive and well-preserved ancient temples in Egypt.
Ramses II also encouraged the arts and sciences, and he was a patron of scribes and scholars. He established a library in his palace and commissioned the translation of many ancient texts into hieroglyphics. He was also a patron of the arts, and he supported the creation of many works of art, including sculptures, paintings, and carvings.
Ramses II's reign was not without its challenges, however. He faced several rebellions and uprisings during his sixty-year rule, and he had to work to maintain the loyalty of his subjects. Despite these challenges, he was able to maintain a strong and stable government and lead Egypt to a period of prosperity.
Ramses II died in 1213 BCE at the age of ninety, after a reign of over sixty years. He was buried in the Valley of the Kings, and his mummy was discovered in 1881 CE. Today, he is remembered as one of the greatest Pharaohs in Egyptian history, and his legacy continues to be celebrated in Egypt and around the world.