HISTORIA DEL ANTIGUO EGIPTO ⭐️ El REINO NUEVO: las Dinastías XIX y XX (1295-1069 a. C.)⚡

History of the New Kingdom: Dynasties 19 and 20

Overview of the New Kingdom

• Alejandra introduces the topic, focusing on the second part of the New Kingdom, specifically the 19th and 20th dynasties known for their grand tombs in the Valley of the Kings.

• The first part of the New Kingdom is discussed in a previous video, which viewers are encouraged to watch for context.

The Amarna Period

• The Amarna period is highlighted as a significant era in Ancient Egyptian history that influenced material culture and historical narratives.

Tutankhamun's Reign

• Tutankhamun ascended to power at just six years old during the end of the Amarna period; his name changed from Tutankhaten to Tutankhamun to align with traditional religious practices.

• The Restoration Stele is noted as a crucial document from Tutankhamun’s reign, criticizing Akhenaten's rule and restoring pre-Amarna religious practices.

Conflicts with Hittites

• During Tutankhamun's reign, Egypt faced conflicts with Hittites over territory in Syria-Palestine; future pharaoh Forengeb was leading military efforts at this time.

Succession After Tutankhamun

• Following Tutankhamun's early death, Ay briefly ruled for three years; speculation exists about his familial ties to royalty.

• Ay was succeeded by Hohenhed, who faced challenges legitimizing his rule due to lack of royal blood but initiated significant construction projects.

Transition to Ramses Dynasty

• Hohenhed chose Mesu as his successor; Mesu’s lineage linked him to Avaris and he emphasized connections with Set rather than Horus.

Establishment of Ramses I

• After Hohenhed’s death, Paramis became vizier and later crowned Ramses I, marking a new dynasty despite being an older ruler who governed briefly.

Seti I's Military Campaigns

• Seti I succeeded Ramses I and conducted notable military campaigns against Hittites while also constructing temples dedicated to Osiris. His reign lasted approximately 11 years.

Legacy of Ramses II

Battle of Cadiz and the Reign of Ramses II

Overview of the Battle of Cadiz

• The battle is described as a disaster for the Egyptians, failing to achieve their objectives.

• Egyptian sources, particularly from Ramses II, portray it as a success due to divine intervention from the god Amun.

• Despite the battle's outcome, Egyptians returned with prisoners and loot.

Political Developments During Ramses II

• Peace was achieved with the Hittites during Ramses II's reign, benefiting Egypt amid Hittite conflicts with other peoples.

• Ramses II initiated an extensive construction program in Avaris, including his residence known as Pyr Ramses.

Transition to the 20th Dynasty

• The 19th dynasty concluded with Queen Tausret's death; succession issues arose before passing power to Ramses III.

• Under Merneptah’s rule in the 20th dynasty, incursions by Sea Peoples began but were ultimately defeated by Ramses III.

Achievements and Challenges of Ramses III

• Notable constructions include the famous temple at Medinet Habu, which remains significant today.

• Administrative reforms were implemented due to corruption issues; land was donated to important temples.

Social Unrest and Decline in Power

• The first recorded strike in history occurred during Ramses III’s reign among workers at Medinet Habu.

• Gradual loss of control over territories led to political instability; priests gained more independence.

Final Years of the 20th Dynasty

• Pharaoh Ramses XI faced worsening political and economic conditions marked by famine and incursions from Libyan peoples.