Eighteenth Dynasty of Egypt (jan 1, 1550 BC – jan 1, 1292 BC)

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The Eighteenth Dynasty of Egypt, marking the start of the New Kingdom, lasted from approximately 1550/1549 to 1292 BC and is often dubbed the Thutmoside Dynasty due to several rulers named Thutmose. This period is considered ancient Egypt's most powerful era. Key figures include Pharaohs such as Tutankhamun, discovered by Howard Carter in 1922, Hatshepsut, the longest-reigning female pharaoh, and Akhenaten, known as the "heretic pharaoh." Notably, this dynasty featured two queens who ruled as pharaohs: Hatshepsut and likely Nefertiti under the name Neferneferuaten.

The dynasty began with Ahmose I, who completed the expulsion of the Hyksos and established a period of prosperity and territorial expansion, reaching its zenith under pharaohs like Thutmose III, who significantly extended Egypt’s boundaries. Amenhotep III’s reign epitomized the dynasty's peak, characterized by immense wealth, extensive building projects, and artistic achievements. His son, Akhenaten, dramatically shifted the religious landscape by promoting the worship of the Aten as the supreme deity, leading to the controversial Amarna Period. Following Akhenaten's rule, the brief reigns of Smenkhkare and Neferneferuaten preceded Tutankhamun, who restored polytheism and traditional religious practices.

The dynasty concluded with Ay and Horemheb, who ascended from royal court officials to pharaohs, setting the stage for the Nineteenth Dynasty under Ramesses I. The Eighteenth Dynasty’s influence extended deep into Nubia and the Near East, showcasing Egypt’s power through military conquests and expansive trade networks.

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