All about hatshepsut biography national geographic
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Hatshepsut: The Princess who Became King
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Pharaohs
As ancient Egyptian rulers, pharaohs were both the heads of state and the religious leaders of their people. The word “pharaoh” means “Great House,” a reference to the palace where the pharaoh resides. While early Egyptian rulers were called “kings,” over time, the name “pharaoh” stuck.
As the religious leader of the Egyptians, the pharaoh was considered the divineintermediary between the gods and Egyptians. Maintaining religious harmony and participating in ceremonies were part of the pharaoh’s role as head of the religion. As a statesman, the pharaoh made laws, waged war, collected taxes, and oversaw all the land in Egypt (which was owned by the pharaoh).
Many scholars believe the first pharaoh was Narmer, also called Menes. Though there is some debate among experts, many believe he was the first ruler to unite upper and lower Egypt (this is why pharaohs hold the title of “lord of two lands”). Pharaohs were typically male, although there were some noteworthy female lea
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Key Figures of Ancient Egypt
If asked to name 10 key figures in America today, the list could include people from many walks of life. They might feature a political figure, a religious leader, a military hero, an actor, a musician, an author, an athlete, a doctor, and a scientist. People in all of those careers contribute to society in important ways. If you still were short on names, you could turn to websites, newspapers, television, and libraries. These resources would remind you of the people making an impact here and now.
But if asked to name key figures of ancient Egypt, our range of roles and occupations becomes much narrower. The Egyptians recorded their history in hieroglyphs and hieratic script. However, most of the existing records highlight political and religious rulers. Even some of these key figures have acquired layers of legend as their stories were carried through the centuries. This history can make it difficult to separate myth from fact. Many influential figur