Ramses II

Ramses II

A Royal Surprise Thousands of years ago, in the year1303 BC, Ramses II was born in Egypt. His father, Seti I, and mother, Mut-Tuy (MOOT TOO-ee), probably didn't expect their son to become king. They weren't even members of the king's family. Still, Ramses became one of the most famous leaders during a time in Egypt called the New Kingdom. In fact, Ramses II was one of the most important pharaohs in all of ancient Egypt.

Becoming the Pharaoh Several years before Ramses, Horemheb was king. Horemheb liked Ramses's grandfather and made him next in line to the throne. When the king died, Ramses's grandfather became king. When he died a few years later, Ramses's father was king. Ramses was next in line.

Ramses II learned the skills he'd need to rule Egypt by working with his father, the king. One surviving piece of art shows Ramses helping his father with religious duties. Another shows Ramses and his father roping a bull. Ramses needed strength to lead his army into battle. Things such as roping bulls and riding wild horses helped him prepare for his duties as king. Ramses became a captain in the army when he was very young. Seti I gave Ramses titles and tasks as a leader to help prepare him to rule.

Ramses was thought of as an adult by the time he was a teenager. He traveled with his father to gain experience. He also had his own home. Ramses married his first wife when he was about fifteen. At the time, it was common for rulers to marry more than one wife, and Ramses followed the custom. Many historians think Ramses married eight or more times. His first wife, Nefertari, remained his favorite.

Warrior and Pharaoh Ramses was in charge of the army during Seti I's rule. He became known as a brave soldier. Stone carvings show Ramses going into battle with his two oldest sons. Historians think this battle took place in Nubia, a country south of Egypt at that time. Nubia had plenty of gold and other riches, so kings of Egypt and Nubia often fought for its control. Ramses was about twenty-five when Seti I died, which made Ramses king.