Ramses II

Definition

Ramses II, also known as Ramses the Great, was the third pharaoh of the Nineteenth Dynasty of Egypt, ruling from 1279 to 1213 BCE. He is celebrated for his military leadership, monumental building projects, and his role in establishing Egypt as a dominant power during the New Kingdom. His reign is often regarded as the height of Egyptian civilization, showcasing advancements in art, architecture, and international diplomacy.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Ramses II ruled for an impressive 66 years, making him one of the longest-reigning pharaohs in Egyptian history.
2. He is known for signing one of the world's first known peace treaties with the Hittites after the Battle of Kadesh.
3. Ramses II commissioned over 1,000 statues of himself and built many temples, including the famous Abu Simbel temples dedicated to himself and the gods.
4. His reign saw the construction of impressive architectural achievements, such as the Ramesseum, a mortuary temple dedicated to him.
5. Ramses II was often regarded as a god-king, and his legacy was celebrated long after his death through stories and historical records.

Review Questions

• How did Ramses II contribute to Egypt's military and political status during his reign?
  • Ramses II significantly bolstered Egypt's military might through campaigns such as the Battle of Kadesh against the Hittites, which established him as a formidable leader. His ability to secure a peace treaty after this battle showcased his diplomatic skills and helped maintain stability in the region. This combination of military prowess and political acumen helped reinforce Egypt's status as a dominant power during the New Kingdom.
• Discuss the importance of Ramses II's building projects and how they reflected the values and beliefs of ancient Egyptian society.
  • Ramses II's building projects were monumental and served to illustrate his power and divine status as a ruler. Structures like the temples at Abu Simbel not only showcased advanced architectural skills but also emphasized religious devotion and reverence for the gods. These projects reinforced the cultural values of ancient Egyptian society, highlighting themes of immortality and the divine right to rule through grandeur and artistry.
• Evaluate Ramses II's legacy in terms of how he shaped both ancient Egyptian culture and future perceptions of pharaonic rule.
  • Ramses II's legacy is profound as he exemplified the ideal characteristics of a pharaoh: military strength, divine kingship, and monumental achievement. His extensive building projects left a lasting impact on Egyptian architecture and art, setting a standard for future rulers. Additionally, his life story became legendary, influencing how pharaohs were perceived in later generations as embodiments of power and piety, thus shaping the narrative of ancient Egyptian identity for centuries to come.

Related terms

New Kingdom: The period in ancient Egyptian history from around 1550 to 1070 BCE, characterized by territorial expansion, wealth, and cultural flourishing.

Battle of Kadesh: A significant military confrontation between Ramses II and the Hittite Empire, often cited as one of the largest chariot battles in history.

Abu Simbel: A pair of massive rock temples built by Ramses II in southern Egypt, which served as a monument to his reign and religious devotion.