Thutmose III

Definition

Thutmose III was the sixth pharaoh of the Eighteenth Dynasty of Egypt, reigning from approximately 1479 to 1425 BCE. Often referred to as the 'Napoleon of Egypt,' he is known for his military conquests that expanded Egypt’s empire to its greatest territorial extent, establishing it as a dominant power in the ancient world during the New Kingdom period.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Thutmose III conducted at least 17 military campaigns, extending Egypt's influence into Canaan, Syria, and Nubia.
2. He was known for his strategic use of chariots and infantry formations, which revolutionized warfare in ancient Egypt.
3. Thutmose III was a patron of the arts and oversaw numerous construction projects, including temples and monuments that celebrated his achievements.
4. His reign is often considered a high point of ancient Egyptian civilization, characterized by wealth, military success, and cultural prosperity.
5. After his death, Thutmose III was deified and revered as one of Egypt's greatest rulers, leaving a legacy that influenced future pharaohs.

Review Questions

• How did Thutmose III's military strategies impact the expansion of the Egyptian Empire?
  • Thutmose III implemented innovative military strategies that significantly impacted the expansion of the Egyptian Empire. By effectively utilizing chariots and forming well-organized infantry units, he achieved decisive victories in numerous battles, such as the Battle of Megiddo. These strategies not only secured Egyptian control over key territories in Canaan and Syria but also established Egypt as a dominant military power in the ancient world.
• In what ways did Thutmose III's reign reflect the cultural and economic prosperity of the New Kingdom period?
  • Thutmose III's reign epitomized the cultural and economic prosperity of the New Kingdom through extensive building projects and patronage of the arts. He commissioned many temples and monuments that showcased both his military achievements and religious devotion. This flourishing artistic expression, combined with the wealth generated from conquests and trade, contributed to a vibrant society marked by significant advancements in architecture, sculpture, and literature.
• Evaluate the legacy of Thutmose III in relation to his successors and its impact on ancient Egyptian history.
  • Thutmose III's legacy had a profound impact on his successors and ancient Egyptian history as a whole. His military successes set a standard for future pharaohs who sought to emulate his strategies and expand Egypt's influence. The cultural advancements during his reign also provided a foundation for subsequent artistic and architectural developments. His deification after death further solidified his status as one of Egypt’s greatest rulers, influencing how later pharaohs viewed their own roles and responsibilities in maintaining the empire's strength and prestige.

Related terms

Hatshepsut:

The fifth pharaoh of the Eighteenth Dynasty, Hatshepsut was Thutmose III's stepmother and co-regent, known for her successful reign and extensive building projects.

Battle of Megiddo: A significant battle fought during Thutmose III's reign, marking his first major military campaign in Canaan, which solidified Egyptian control over the region.

Egyptian Empire: A term describing the vast territories controlled by Egypt during its height, particularly under rulers like Thutmose III, encompassing parts of the Near East and Nubia.