Many of us have grown up with the image of a male ruler sitting on a throne, adorned in luxurious robes and a crown. However, did you know that there were several women who ruled Egypt as pharaohs? These women were not mere queens or consorts, but they held the highest office in the land. So, what is a female pharaoh called? The answer is simple: she is still referred to as a pharaoh.
The first female pharaoh of Egypt was Queen Sobekneferu, who ruled during the 12th dynasty. Throughout the centuries, several other women took on the title of pharaoh, including Hatshepsut, Cleopatra, and Nefertiti. These women were not only leaders, but they built monumental structures and made significant contributions to Egyptian society.
Despite their impressive reigns, the legacy of these female pharaohs has been largely forgotten or overshadowed by their male counterparts. However, as we continue to learn more about their accomplishments and impact, it’s clear that these women deserve to be celebrated and remembered. So the question of what a female pharaoh is called is not only a matter of semantics, but a reminder of the incredible women who once ruled over one of the world’s greatest civilizations.
Egyptian Queen Regnants
In Ancient Egypt, women played significant roles in society and politics, including ruling as pharaohs. The term “pharaoh” is often associated with male rulers, but in Ancient Egypt, female pharaohs, also known as queen-regnants, were not uncommon. While male pharaohs were considered to have divine powers, female pharaohs were respected for their intelligence, leadership skills, and ability to rule justly.
- Hatshepsut: One of the most famous female pharaohs, Hatshepsut ruled from 1479-1458 BCE. She is known for her successful reign marked by building programs, trade expeditions, and military conquests. She was able to assume the role of pharaoh by declaring herself a male and wearing traditional male regalia.
- Cleopatra VII: The last pharaoh of Ancient Egypt, Cleopatra VII ruled from 51-30 BCE. She is known for her intelligence, political skill, and relationships with Julius Caesar and Mark Antony. Although she ruled during a time of turmoil in Egypt, she was able to maintain her power and prosperity by negotiating treaties and alliances with Rome.
- Nefertiti: While not a queen-regnant, Nefertiti was a powerful queen who played a prominent role in Ancient Egypt during the reign of her husband, Akhenaten. She is known for her beauty and for her religious reforms which centered around the worship of the sun-disk god, Aten.
Significance of Female Pharaohs
The significance of female pharaohs in Ancient Egypt cannot be overstated. Their reigns showed that women were capable of leading and governing just as effectively as men. Their rule also elevated the status of women in Ancient Egyptian society and paved the way for future queens, such as Cleopatra, to assume positions of power and influence.
Comparison with Other Ancient Civilizations
While Ancient Egypt was unique in terms of its high number of female rulers, other ancient civilizations also had women in positions of power. For example, Queen Puabi ruled the Sumerian city of Ur in the 26th century BCE. In addition, Queen Boudicca led the Celtic rebellion against the Romans in 60-61 CE.
Female Pharaohs of Ancient Egypt
| Pharaoh | Reign | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Hatshepsut | 1479-1458 BCE | Known for building programs, trade expeditions, and military conquests. |
| Cleopatra VII | 51-30 BCE | Known for her intelligence, political skill, and relationships with Julius Caesar and Mark Antony. |
| Nitocris | 2148-2144 BCE | Known for her successful reign and building programs. |
These female pharaohs left a lasting legacy in Ancient Egypt, demonstrating the power and potential of women in leadership roles.
Ancient Egyptian Female Rulers
Ancient Egypt is one of the world’s oldest civilizations, boasting a rich cultural heritage that continues to fascinate people to this day. While it is widely known that male pharaohs ruled over Egypt for centuries, it is less well-known that there were also several powerful and influential female pharaohs who left their mark on history.
- Hatshepsut: One of the most well-known female pharaohs in Ancient Egypt, Hatshepsut ruled over the country as co-regent with her stepson Thutmose III for over two decades. She is remembered for her impressive building projects, including the stunning mortuary temple at Deir el-Bahri, and for her role as a successful military leader who expanded Egypt’s borders.
- Cleopatra VII: Perhaps the most famous of all the female pharaohs, Cleopatra VII was the last ruler of the Ptolemaic dynasty and is immortalized in history for her relationships with Julius Caesar and Mark Antony. She was a skilled diplomat and leader, presiding over a time of relative peace and prosperity in Egypt before her death in 30 BC.
- Neferneferuaten: A lesser-known ruler, Neferneferuaten (also known as Nefertiti) is believed to have briefly ruled Egypt as Pharaoh after the death of her husband, King Akhenaten. Not much is known about her reign or her life, but she is remembered for her beauty and her role as a powerful queen during a turbulent time in Ancient Egypt’s history.
Female Pharaohs: What Were They Called?
Female pharaohs in Ancient Egypt were referred to by a few different names, depending on the circumstances of their reign.
| Name | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Pharaoh | Used when referring to all rulers regardless of gender. So, female rulers were also called Pharaoh. |
| King’s Great Wife | Used in situations where the female ruler was married to a male pharaoh and acted as his consort while also wielding significant power and influence in her own right. |
| Female Horus | Used in reference to powerful female rulers who had the support of the gods and were seen as divine entities. |
Regardless of the name they were called, female pharaohs in Ancient Egypt defied expectations and left their mark on history as powerful leaders and visionaries in their own right.
Women in Ancient Egypt
Ancient Egypt is known for its rich history, impressive architecture, and fascinating culture. One aspect of this culture that is often overlooked is the role of women, specifically female pharaohs. While the majority of pharaohs throughout history were male, there were a handful of notable exceptions. In this article, we’ll explore the world of women in Ancient Egypt, including the answer to the question, “What is a female pharaoh called?”
Female Pharaohs
- Hatshepsut: One of the most famous female pharaohs, Hatshepsut ruled Egypt from approximately 1479-1458 BCE. She famously dressed as a man and wore a false beard to assert her authority. During her reign, Hatshepsut oversaw numerous building projects, including her mortuary temple at Deir el-Bahri.
- Cleopatra VII: Perhaps the most well-known of all female pharaohs, Cleopatra VII ruled Egypt from 51-30 BCE. She was the last pharaoh of Ancient Egypt and famously had relationships with both Julius Caesar and Mark Antony. While her reign was tumultuous, Cleopatra is remembered for her intelligence and political savvy.
- Tawosret: Another notable female pharaoh, Tawosret ruled Egypt from approximately 1191-1189 BCE. She became pharaoh after the death of her husband, Seti II, and is thought to have been a co-regent with him before his passing. Her reign was short-lived, however, and she was ultimately succeeded by a male pharaoh, Siptah.
Women in Ancient Egyptian Society
While female pharaohs are certainly noteworthy, not all women in Ancient Egypt had such prestigious roles. Women in Ancient Egyptian society held various positions, including priestesses, musicians, dancers, and weavers. They were also responsible for raising children and managing household tasks.
One interesting aspect of Ancient Egyptian society was the concept of gender equality in terms of property ownership. Women were able to inherit and own property, and they could even initiate divorce (although men did have more legal rights overall).
Conclusion
So, what is a female pharaoh called? Simply put, a female pharaoh is called a pharaoh, just like a male pharaoh. Despite their rarity, female pharaohs played an important role in Ancient Egyptian history and their legacy continues to inspire us today. Beyond the pharaohs, women in Ancient Egyptian society held diverse roles and had certain legal protections that were unique for their time.
| Female Pharaoh | Reign | Notable Achievements |
|---|---|---|
| Hatshepsut | 1479-1458 BCE | Oversaw numerous building projects, including her mortuary temple at Deir el-Bahri |
| Cleopatra VII | 51-30 BCE | Last pharaoh of Ancient Egypt; had relationships with Julius Caesar and Mark Antony |
| Tawosret | 1191-1189 BCE | Second female pharaoh in history; ruled in a co-regency with her husband, Seti II |
The achievements and stories of these female pharaohs and the women of Ancient Egyptian society serve as a reminder of the important roles that women have played in history, and continue to play today.
Hatshepsut and her Reign
The ancient Egyptian civilization was home to several pharaohs who ruled over the land for centuries. However, only a few female pharaohs ever ruled in ancient Egyptian history. One of the most notable of these is Hatshepsut, who was the fifth pharaoh of the Eighteenth Dynasty of Egypt. Her reign lasted for over two decades, from around 1478 to 1458 BC, and was a period of significant prosperity and development for Egypt.
- Early life: Hatshepsut was born to Thutmose I and his principal queen, Ahmose. She had two brothers – Thutmose II and Nefrubity, but neither of them lived very long. This made Hatshepsut the eldest surviving child of her parents, and she was groomed to become the next pharaoh after her father’s death.
- Becoming pharaoh: When Thutmose I died, Hatshepsut’s half-brother Thutmose II became pharaoh. He married Hatshepsut, and together they had a daughter named Neferure. After Thutmose II died, Hatshepsut became regent for her infant stepson and nephew, who would later become Thutmose III. Eventually, Hatshepsut declared herself pharaoh and ruled Egypt in her own right.
- Building projects: Hatshepsut is known for her many building projects, which included several important temples and monuments. One of her most famous projects was the mortuary temple at Deir el-Bahri, which has been recognized as one of the most significant architectural achievements of the ancient world.
In addition to these building projects, Hatshepsut also oversaw trade expeditions and military campaigns. Some of her most notable accomplishments include expanding Egypt’s trade networks and securing the country’s borders.
Despite her success as a pharaoh, Hatshepsut’s reign was not without controversy. Many of her male contemporaries viewed her rule as unusual and inappropriate, and some even attempted to erase her from history after her death. However, Hatshepsut’s legacy has endured, and she is now recognized as one of the most successful pharaohs in ancient Egyptian history.
| Pharaoh | Reign |
|---|---|
| Akhethotep | 1650 BC |
| Sobekneferu | 1806-1802 BC |
| Neferneferuaten | 1332-1338 BC |
| Hatshepsut | 1478-1458 BC |
While the number of female pharaohs in ancient Egypt was limited, their contributions to the country’s history were significant. Hatshepsut, in particular, stands out for her remarkable reign and impressive accomplishments. Her legacy continues to inspire people around the world today.
Cleopatra, the Last Pharaoh
In ancient Egyptian history, there were several female pharaohs, but the most well-known and iconic one is Cleopatra VII. She was the last pharaoh of Egypt and ruled during a time of great political upheaval.
- Cleopatra was born in 69 BC and became queen at the age of 18
- She was a member of the Ptolemaic dynasty, which was of Greek origin and ruled Egypt after Alexander the Great’s death
- Cleopatra was fluent in several languages, including Greek, Egyptian, and Latin, which helped her in dealing with the Roman Empire
During her reign, Cleopatra formed an alliance with the Roman general Julius Caesar, and together they had a son named Caesarion. After Caesar’s assassination, Cleopatra aligned herself with Mark Antony, with whom she had a tumultuous romantic relationship. This alliance would ultimately lead to their defeat by Octavian, who would later become the first Roman Emperor.
Despite being remembered as one of history’s greatest seductresses, Cleopatra was also known for her intelligence and political savvy. She was a master at manipulating those around her to achieve her goals, and her reign was marked by economic prosperity and cultural accomplishments.
The Female Pharaohs of Egypt
- Hatshepsut, who ruled Egypt for over 20 years and was known for her impressive building projects and expansion of trade
- Nefertiti, who was the wife of Pharaoh Akhenaten and helped to usher in a new era of art and religion
- Tawosret, who took the throne after the death of her husband and stepson and is remembered for her impressive mortuary temple
Gender Roles in Ancient Egypt
In a society that was largely patriarchal, the fact that women were able to rule as pharaohs is a testament to their strength and power. However, it is important to note that even these women were still subject to the societal norms of their time. For example, Hatshepsut often had herself depicted as a man in order to assert her authority and legitimacy.
Additionally, while women had more rights in ancient Egypt than in other societies of the time, they were still largely relegated to the domestic sphere. It is believed that only a small percentage of women in ancient Egypt were literate, and their main role was to bear children and manage the household.
A Summary of Cleopatra’s Reign
To summarize, Cleopatra VII was the last pharaoh of Egypt and is remembered as an iconic figure in history. She was a skilled politician and diplomat, forming alliances with powerful men like Julius Caesar and Mark Antony. Her reign was marked by prosperity and cultural achievements, but ultimately she and her lover Antony would be defeated by Octavian and forced to commit suicide. Despite this defeat, Cleopatra’s legacy lives on and continues to fascinate people to this day.
| Birth | 69 BC |
|---|---|
| Reign | 51 BC – 30 BC |
| Dynasty | Ptolemaic |
| Allies | Julius Caesar, Mark Antony |
| Children | Caesarion |
| Death | August 12, 30 BC (suicide) |
Sources: Britannica, History
Nefertiti and her Dynasty
During the reign of the Eighteenth Dynasty in Ancient Egypt, Nefertiti stood out as one of the most powerful and enigmatic female pharaohs. She was known for her beauty, intelligence, and influence over her husband, Akhenaten.
Nefertiti was not the first female pharaoh, but she certainly left a lasting impact on Egyptian history. Her reign was marked by a move towards monotheism and a rejection of the traditional gods. This was reflected in the art and architecture of the time, with the construction of new temples and statues depicting Akhenaten and Nefertiti worshipping the one god, Aten.
Despite the many controversies surrounding Nefertiti and her reign, she remains a fascinating figure to this day. Here are some key facts about this remarkable pharaoh:
- Nefertiti was the wife of the pharaoh Akhenaten and likely ruled alongside him as his co-regent.
- She was perhaps the mother of the famous boy-king Tutankhamun, though this has not been definitively proven.
- Nefertiti is famous for her distinctive bust, which is considered one of the most beautiful and iconic works of ancient Egyptian art.
In addition to her impact on Egyptian culture and society, Nefertiti is also known for her many achievements in the fields of art and architecture. She was a patron of the arts and supported the creation of many of the stunning temples and tombs that still survive today.
Overall, Nefertiti’s influence on Ancient Egypt cannot be overstated. She was a woman ahead of her time, and her legacy continues to fascinate and inspire people to this day.
Nefertiti’s Legacy in Modern Times
The fascination with Nefertiti and her reign has continued to the present day, with many people still intrigued by her beauty, power, and influence. Her story has been the subject of countless books, movies, and documentaries.
One of the most significant ways in which Nefertiti’s legacy has been preserved is through her art. Her bust is considered one of the most valuable pieces in the Berlin Museum and has become a symbol of Ancient Egyptian beauty and grace.
Additionally, the architecture of her era continues to inspire modern architects and designers. The use of symmetry, clean lines, and innovative construction techniques can be seen in many modern buildings, from government offices to museums and hotels.
Overall, Nefertiti’s legacy continues to be felt across many different fields, and her influence on Ancient Egypt is still being discovered and appreciated today.
The Succession of Nefertiti’s Dynasty
Despite Nefertiti’s many achievements and lasting influence, her reign was not without controversy. There are many theories about how she died and what happened after her death, but there is one thing we know for certain: her dynasty did not last.
After Nefertiti’s reign came to an end, the Eighteenth Dynasty continued under the rule of several other pharaohs, including Tutankhamun and his successors. However, the dynasty eventually fell into decline, and Ancient Egypt entered a period of turmoil and uncertainty.
Nevertheless, Nefertiti’s impact on Egyptian history cannot be denied. She remains a symbol of female empowerment and a reminder of the incredible achievements that can be accomplished by women in positions of power.
| Name | Relationship to Nefertiti | Reign |
|---|---|---|
| Akhenaten | Husband and likely co-regent | 1353-1336 BCE |
| Smenkhkare | Possible co-regent or successor | 1335-1334 BCE |
| Tutankhamun | Possible son or stepson | 1332-1323 BCE |
The reign of Nefertiti may have been short-lived, but it has left a lasting impact on Ancient Egyptian history. Her achievements in art, architecture, and social reform continue to inspire and influence people around the world, making her one of the most enduring and unforgettable pharaohs of all time.
Female Power and Authority in Ancient Egypt
Ancient Egypt was known for its powerful pharaohs, both male and female. In fact, several notable women ruled the land of the Nile, proving that women held a significant amount of power and authority in ancient Egypt. In this article, we will explore what a female pharaoh was called and delve into the various ways women wielded power in ancient Egypt.
What is a Female Pharaoh called?
- In ancient Egypt, a female pharaoh was known as a “Kandake” or “Candace”. This term was specific to the Kingdom of Kush, an ancient African kingdom that existed in what is now known as Sudan.
- However, in ancient Egypt, the term used was “Hatshepsut”, which translates to “Foremost of Noble Ladies”. Hatshepsut is perhaps the most well-known female pharaoh and is recognized as one of the greatest pharaohs in Egyptian history.
The Power of Women in Ancient Egypt
Women in ancient Egypt enjoyed a level of power and autonomy that was uncommon in other ancient civilizations. They held prominent roles in both religion and government, and their status as mothers and wives was highly valued.
Some of the ways in which women wielded power in ancient Egypt include:
- Queenly Power: Egyptian queens held significant power and were often depicted alongside their husbands, the pharaohs. They were responsible for overseeing the management of the household and acted as advisors to their husbands.
- Religious Authority: Women were highly involved in the religious practices of ancient Egypt. They held important roles as priestesses and even served as the high priestess of a temple.
- Political Power: Some women, such as Hatshepsut, gained political power by assuming the position of pharaoh. Hatshepsut was a successful leader who reigned for over two decades and implemented many innovative policies during her rule.
The 7 Notable Female Pharaohs of Ancient Egypt
| Name | Reign | Notable Accomplishments |
|---|---|---|
| Nitocris | 6th Dynasty (c. 2184–2154 BCE) | Built one of the pyramids at Giza and was known for her strategic military tactics. |
| Sobekneferu | 12th Dynasty (c. 1806-1802 BCE) | The last pharaoh of the 12th Dynasty who is known for constructing a temple at Karnak. |
| Hatshepsut | 18th Dynasty (c. 1478-1458 BCE) | Known for commissioning numerous building projects and for her successful trade expeditions. |
| Tawosret | 19th Dynasty (c. 1191-1189 BCE) | The last pharaoh of the 19th Dynasty, she was known for her building projects and her military campaigns. |
| Nefertiti | 18th Dynasty (c. 1370-1330 BCE) | Known for her beauty and association with the Amarna Period, a time of great artistic and cultural innovation in ancient Egypt. |
| Merenptah | 19th Dynasty (c. 1213-1203 BCE) | While not a female pharaoh herself, his mother Queen Takhat wielded significant power during his reign. |
| Cleopatra VII | 30th Dynasty (c. 51-30 BCE) | Known for her alliances with Roman leaders, such as Julius Caesar and Mark Antony, and for her intellectual pursuits. |
These notable female pharaohs, alongside other powerful women in ancient Egypt, demonstrated the important role that women played in shaping the history and culture of this ancient civilization. Their legacies continue to inspire and empower women today.
What is a Female Pharaoh Called?
Q: What is a female pharaoh called?
A: A female pharaoh in ancient Egypt is called a “pharaohess”, “pharaoness”, or simply “pharaoh”.
Q: Was it common for women to become pharaohs in Egypt?
A: It was uncommon for women to rule as pharaohs in ancient Egypt, but there were several notable female pharaohs in history.
Q: Who are some famous female pharaohs?
A: Some famous female pharaohs include Hatshepsut, Cleopatra VII, and Nefertiti.
Q: How did female pharaohs gain power in ancient Egypt?
A: Female pharaohs typically gained power through royal lineage or inheritance. In some cases, they were appointed as regents for young male heirs.
Q: Did female pharaohs have the same powers as male pharaohs?
A: Female pharaohs had the same powers and responsibilities as male pharaohs. They were considered the sole rulers of Egypt and commanded the loyalty of their subjects.
Q: What were some of the accomplishments of female pharaohs?
A: Female pharaohs oversaw construction projects, military campaigns, and religious ceremonies. They were also patrons of the arts and made significant contributions to Egypt’s cultural legacy.
Q: Are there any female pharaohs in modern Egypt?
A: There have been no female pharaohs in modern Egypt, as the position of pharaoh no longer exists. However, women hold positions of power and leadership in many aspects of modern Egyptian society.
Closing Thoughts
Thanks for taking the time to learn about female pharaohs in ancient Egypt. While the position of pharaoh may no longer exist, the legacy of powerful women in Egyptian history lives on. Don’t forget to visit us again for more fascinating insights into the past.