How did hatshepsut change Egypt during her reign as Pharoah
Hatshepsut, who reigned as Pharaoh from 1479 to 1458 BCE, brought about significant changes in Egypt during her reign. Here are some ways in which Hatshepsut's rule transformed Egypt:
1. Female Pharaoh: Hatshepsut became the first known female Pharaoh in ancient Egypt, breaking the traditional male-dominated rule. She declared herself Pharaoh and donned the traditional royal regalia, including the false beard and the male kilt, to legitimize her authority. This challenged the prevailing perception of women in leadership roles.
2. Rule Stability: Under Hatshepsut's reign, Egypt experienced a relatively peaceful and prosperous period. She focused on maintaining internal stability, initiating trade expeditions to secure resources and establish commercial networks. This emphasis on stability led to economic growth and increased wealth.
3. Architectural Achievements: Hatshepsut embarked on numerous architectural projects throughout Egypt, with the most notable being the construction of her mortuary temple, known as Deir el-Bahri or Djeser-Djeseru. This temple, situated on the west bank of the Nile near Thebes, showcased her reign as Pharaoh and contributed to the advancement of Egyptian architecture.
4. Artistic Innovations: Hatshepsut encouraged the development of art and commissioned numerous statues, reliefs, and other artistic works. She favored a more naturalistic style, with portraiture reflecting her actual physical features rather than the idealized representations seen in earlier periods. These artistic innovations influenced Egyptian art for generations.
5. Trade and Exploration: Hatshepsut actively promoted trade and exploration during her reign. She sponsored various trade expeditions to the Land of Punt (possibly the present-day Somalia/Eritrea region), where Egypt acquired exotic goods like gold, ivory, ebony, and incense. These expeditions expanded Egypt's influence, trade networks, and access to valuable resources.
6. Restoration Projects: Hatshepsut also focused on restoring religious monuments and temples that had fallen into disrepair during the previous era of political and religious upheaval. She sought to enhance Egypt's religious and cultural legacy by funding the restoration of temples, especially those dedicated to the god Amun, bolstering her legitimacy as Pharaoh.
7. Legacy and Succession: Although Hatshepsut did not have a male heir, she laid the groundwork for a smooth transition of power upon her death. She appointed Thutmose III, her stepson and nephew, as her co-regent, ensuring his training as the future Pharaoh. He would later succeed her and become one of ancient Egypt's most powerful rulers.
Overall, Hatshepsut's reign as Pharaoh left a lasting impact on Egypt. Her achievements in trade, art, architecture, and female leadership set her reign apart and ensured her place in history as one of Egypt's most successful rulers.