Among the pantheon of ancient Egyptian rulers, Thutmose III, also known by his varied spellings such as Tuthmosis or Thothmes, stands as a truly colossal figure. Often referred to as Thutmose the Great, he was the sixth pharaoh of the illustrious Eighteenth Dynasty, a period widely regarded as the pinnacle of Egypt's New Kingdom power and influence.

The Dual Reign: Early Years with Hatshepsut

Thutmose III’s official reign spanned an impressive nearly 54 years, meticulously dated from April 28, 1479 BC, to March 11, 1425 BC. He ascended to the throne as a mere two-year-old and ruled until his death at the age of fifty-six. However, the initial 22 years of this extensive period were marked by a fascinating and arguably unprecedented co-regency. During this time, he shared power with his formidable stepmother and aunt, Hatshepsut, who herself was a remarkable pharaoh and one of the few women to rule Egypt in her own right. While historical monuments often depict Thutmose III with a prominent position, typically shown first, both rulers were consistently assigned the full royal names and insignia, with neither demonstrably holding obvious seniority over the other in official representation. This unique political arrangement saw the young Thutmose gain invaluable experience, notably serving as the head of Hatshepsut's armies, a role that undoubtedly honed his military acumen for his later, independent rule.

Architect of Empire: Thutmose III's Sole Reign and Military Brilliance

Following the deaths of both Thutmose II and Hatshepsut, Thutmose III finally assumed sole control of the kingdom, unleashing a period of unparalleled expansion and military conquest. It was under his visionary leadership that Egypt forged its largest empire to date. His military prowess was legendary, leading no fewer than 17 successful campaigns that profoundly reshaped the ancient Near East. His armies swept across vast territories, from the distant Niya Kingdom in northern Syria, deeply into the Levant, all the way south to the Fourth Cataract of the Nile in Nubia. These relentless campaigns brought immense wealth, resources, and prestige to Egypt, securing its borders and establishing it as the dominant superpower of the era. His strategic genius and tactical brilliance have led some historians to dub him the "Napoleon of Ancient Egypt," a testament to his lasting impact on military history.

Later Years, Succession, and Enduring Legacy

In the twilight of his long and distinguished reign, Thutmose III meticulously planned for the continuity of his dynasty. During his final two years, he appointed his son and designated successor, Amenhotep II, as his junior co-regent, ensuring a smooth transition of power. Tragically, his firstborn son and initial heir to the throne, Amenemhat, had predeceased him. Thutmose III's legacy is immense; he transformed Egypt into an international superpower, leaving behind a kingdom of unprecedented prosperity and territorial reach. His reign is rightly considered a golden age, solidifying his place as one of the most powerful and influential pharaohs of the Eighteenth Dynasty and indeed, all of ancient Egyptian history.

Final Resting Place in the Valley of the Kings

Upon his death, Thutmose III was interred with the grandeur befitting a pharaoh of his stature in the Valley of the Kings, on the west bank of the Nile near Thebes. This sacred necropolis served as the final resting place for most of the New Kingdom pharaohs, a tradition that underscored their divine status and the hope for eternal life in the afterlife.

Frequently Asked Questions about Thutmose III

Who was Thutmose III?

Thutmose III was the sixth pharaoh of ancient Egypt's Eighteenth Dynasty, widely recognized as one of the most powerful and influential rulers who expanded Egypt into its largest empire.

What was his relationship with Hatshepsut?

Hatshepsut was Thutmose III's stepmother and aunt. They shared a unique co-regency for the first 22 years of his reign, during which she ruled as pharaoh while he served as the head of her armies.

Why is Thutmose III called "Thutmose the Great"?

He earned the epithet "the Great" due to his extraordinary military campaigns, which established Egypt's largest empire, significantly boosted its wealth and influence, and cemented its position as the dominant power in the ancient Near East.

How long did Thutmose III rule Egypt?

Thutmose III officially ruled for almost 54 years, from 1479 BC to 1425 BC. However, for the first 22 years, he co-ruled with Hatshepsut.

Where was Thutmose III buried?

He was buried in the Valley of the Kings, a royal necropolis on the west bank of the Nile near ancient Thebes, along with many other pharaohs of the New Kingdom.