Hatshepsut Rules as Pharaoh

Hatshepsut initially serves as regent for her young stepson Thutmose III, but soon claims the full title of pharaoh — even commissioning statues of herself with the traditional false beard. She prioritizes trade over warfare, sending a famous expedition to the land of Punt that returns with gold, incense, and exotic animals. Her mortuary temple at Deir el-Bahri remains one of Egypt's most stunning architectural achievements.