Nebiriau VIII the Trader | |
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Pharaoh of Egypt | |
Reign | 23 September 1592 - 12 January 1615 |
Coronation | 28 January 1593 (Mennefer) 7 March 1593 (Waset) |
Predecessor | Tutankhamun V |
Successor | Dedumose VIII |
Born | June 12, 1541 Palace of the Vinyard, Hennen Nesut, Egypt |
Died | January 12, 1615 | (aged 73)
Spouse | Nefertari XL, Nefertiti XXIX, Khameranebty XX, Henutsen XXI, Henutmira XXXI, Henuttawy XVI, Khentkaus XXIII |
Issue | Dedumose VIII Amongst Others |
Full name | |
Horus Name: Kanakht Tutmesut Seusertawy Nebty Name: Wehemmesut Sekhemkhepesh Golden Horus Name: Wahrenput Nebtawy Praenomen: Merkherpekara Setepenshemzu Nomen: Nebiriau Sahathor Merikhnum | |
House | Nebiriau |
Father | Tutankhamun V |
Mother | Tuya XX |
Religion | Kemetism |
Nebiriau VIII, (Nebiriau Satutankhamun Hesutnebiriau; 12 June 1541 – 12 January 1650) was King of the United Kingdom of Egypt from 12 January 1615 until his death in 1615. His rule is remembered for significant diplomatic achievements, extensive trade expansions, and domestic reforms that ushered in the Nebirionic Golden Age. Nebiriau navigated personal and political challenges, including the deaths of several sons and complex succession issues. He established vital trade alliances with major powers like the Ottoman Empire, France, England, Persia, and the Mughal Empire, and implemented tax reforms that spurred economic growth. His military and strategic acumen, combined with prudent financial policies, left a lasting legacy of wealth and stability for future Egyptian generations. Nebiriau VIII's reign ended with his death on January 2, 1615, marking the end of an era of prosperity and progress.
Early Life[]
Early Life and Education[]
Nebiriau VIII was born on June 12, 1541, as the eldest of triplets to Crown Prince Tutankhamun and Crown Princess Tuya. His siblings were Princess Tuya and Prince Sneferu. Upon his birth, a nurse placed a white linen band on his leg and arm to denote his status as the eldest son. He continued to wear a linen band on his arm until he acceded to the throne. Named Nebiriau Simentu at birth, he was the second living son of his father, following the deaths of his two elder brothers from measles seven months earlier.
Nebiriau began his formal education at the age of six. It soon became evident that he had a strong interest in mathematics and diplomacy, rather than the history and philosophy favored by his father, grandfather, and elder brother. His grandfather passed away in the year Nebiriau began his studies, leading to his father's succession to the throne as Tutankhamun V. Initially planning to serve as an ambassador and finance minister to his father, Nebiriau's plans changed when his brother Dedumose unexpectedly announced his intention to renounce the throne in 1554. King Tutankhamun agreed, on the condition that Dedumose remain heir apparent until Nebiriau was fully capable of inheriting the crown. Upon learning of his impending elevation to Crown Prince, Nebiriau began studying law, foreign relations, combat, and military strategy. He graduated at the age of 24 with degrees in diplomacy, mathematics, and administration.
Career as Mayor and Governor[]
Tutankhamun V appointed Nebiriau as the mayor of Thebes, the traditional capital of Upper Egypt, in 1565. Nebiriau proved to be a capable governor, overseeing extensions to the Great Temple of Amun and establishing new trade routes with Nubia, Ethiopia, Punt, and the Kingdom of Kongo. His careful fiscal policies and new trade initiatives significantly expanded the city's treasury reserves. However, his tenure was marred by the death of his eldest son, Psamtik, during what became known as the "Decade of Sorrow" in his father's reign.
In 1573, Nebiriau was elevated to Governor of Upper Egypt. He immediately faced a scandal involving tomb robbing in the tombs of Smendes VIII and Neferhotep V. Nebiriau personally judged the case, resulting in the disinheritance and punishment of Nakhtmin, a priest of Min, and the execution of two mayors implicated in the scandal. He sealed the tomb entrances with concrete and implemented many improvements tested in Thebes throughout Upper Egypt. In 1574, he built a new financial center in Syene, which became the second most prosperous city in Upper Egypt.
Personal Tragedies and Further Governance[]
Nebiriau's governorship of Upper Egypt ended in 1577 when his son Senusret drowned in a boating accident. This tragedy deeply affected Nebiriau, leading to his appointment as Governor of Lower Egypt by his father, a position he held briefly due to his grief. King Tutankhamun personally intervened, encouraging Nebiriau to remain strong for the sake of the kingdom. Reinvigorated, Nebiriau resumed his role as Governor of Lower Egypt in January 1578, establishing new financial centers in Pelusium, Mendes, Sais, Alexandria, and Buto. His second governorship saw significant wealth entering the state coffers and the implementation of a new irrigation system in Mennefer.
Regency and Accession to the Throne[]
Nebiriau's administrative skills led his elderly father to proclaim him regent on September 6, 1584. As Prince Regent, Nebiriau managed parliamentary and financial affairs. In 1589, during the 100th anniversary of the kingdom's reunification, he announced a two-month tax break. In 1590, Tutankhamun V made his final state opening of parliament, praising Nebiriau for his management of state affairs and expressing confidence in his son's ability to continue and enhance the kingdom's prosperity.
King Tutankhamun V died on September 23, 1592, and Crown Prince Nebiriau acceded to the throne as Nebiriau VIII.
Reign[]
Acession and Death of Crown Prince Ahmose[]
Nebiriau VIII organized an elaborate funeral for his father, who was buried 70 days after his death, adhering to the customs of the period. During this mourning period, his eldest living son, Prince Ahmose, was killed. While the king outwardly expressed shock, he was not deeply saddened as he blamed Ahmose for the death of Prince Senusret. This sentiment was revealed in his personal journal, where he commented on the death of the crown prince:
“His death was only mourned by his mother. I did mourn him publicly to keep up appearances, but I shall not grieve for him, for he took my beloved Senusret. I’m thankful he will not succeed me; when his death was announced, many short smiles were seen. I’ve also heard rumors that Dedumose entered in jubilation, and I can’t say I blame him.”
Coronation and Diplomatic Relations[]
Nebiriau VIII received numerous messages of condolences from various nations. He thanked them and invited ambassadors to Egypt for his coronation and to re-negotiate trade deals. Delegations came from Elizabeth I of England, Henry IV of France, Sarsa Dengel of Ethiopia, Murad III of the Ottoman Empire, Abbas I of Persia, Aspelta V of Nubia, Ramesses XI of Punt, and Clement VIII of the Papal States.
Nebiriau VIII was crowned King of Lower Egypt in Memphis on January 28, 1593, King of Upper Egypt in Thebes on March 7, 1593, and King of United Egypt in Sesostria on July 11, 1593. Between his first and second coronations, his son, the new crown prince Anhurhotep, formerly known as Usermaatra, died by poisoning. King Nebiriau ordered the cause of his son’s death to be hushed and then proclaimed his next son, Kamose, as Crown Prince during his coronation as King of the United Kingdom.
Trade Deals[]
On April 17, 1593, King Nebiriau VIII began talks with foreign diplomats, reaffirming the trade deal with the Ottoman Empire and formalizing an alliance with Ethiopia. He also reaffirmed his protection of Christian pilgrims to the papal envoy. Significant trade contributions came from new deals with France, England, Persia, and the Mughal Empire. A new foreign quarter was created in Sesostria to accommodate foreign merchants. Nebiriau secured access to French trade routes in Asia in return for French access to Egyptian ports and secured trade routes controlled by Persia and England. Diplomatic embassies were sent to the Mughal emperor and the Chinese emperor. The embassy to the Mughal Empire was successful, while the Chinese emperor, impressed with Egypt's history, gifted the Pharaoh with porcelain objects but no trade deals were affirmed. However, on the way back, the ambassadors secured a trade deal with Sanphet II of Ayutthaya.
Domestic Reign[]
In January 1594, Crown Prince Kamose and his brother, Prince Ankhwennefer, died by poisoning. This was the last straw for Nebiriau, who had long been suspicious of the deaths of his sons in quick succession. In the opening of parliament in June, he declared he would no longer appoint a crown prince, and his successor would be named in his will.
Nebirionic Golden Age[]
The era known as the Nebirionic Golden Age began in 1595. Nebiriau initiated a series of reforms, lowering taxes on essential items while raising taxes on luxury goods. This led to increased prosperity for the lower classes and a surplus for the kingdom. In 1596, Nebiriau inaugurated a new shipyard in the city of Mendes, revitalizing the city. Another shipyard followed in 1600.
In the same year, a ship full of Puntite goods was seized by pirates off the coast of Yemen. Nebiriau coordinated an attack on their base with Sultan Mehmed III and King Mentuhotep VIII of Punt, successfully destroying the pirate base, although much of the stolen goods, including a large shipment of frankincense ordered by Nebiriau, were destroyed.
Nebiriau made an agreement with King Mentuhotep to guard the Kenen Strait with their navy, allocating 12 of his best ships for this task. In 1602, Nebiriau celebrated the 100th anniversary of his grandfather Senusret VIII's accession with a huge celebration. He allowed his people to visit the shrine of the great Senusret inside the palace and went on a tour of the provinces, sending his son Dedumose on a tour of Lower Egypt.
Crisis and Conflict[]
In 1603, Punt was unexpectedly invaded by Nubia. The Nubians destroyed the capital Puntiniut and ransacked neighboring towns, killing Crown Prince Ankhaf. King Ramesses XI fled to Egypt, seeking assistance from the Pharaoh. Nebiriau, reluctant to intervene militarily against powerful Nubia under Aspelta V and Queen Amanitore, instead halted trade with Nubia, blockaded its coastline, counterfeited Nubian coins to create an economic crisis, and paid Bedouins to attack Nubian cities. These actions forced Nubia to negotiate. The treaty required Nubia to abandon its conquests in Punt, pay a large indemnity, and in return, Nebiriau would lift the blockade, restore trade, and buy up Nubian debt.
Economic Policies and Legacy[]
Between 1604 and 1614, Nebiriau improved the Egyptian economy and pursued a peaceful foreign policy. His monetary policy led to an overfilled treasury, resulting in the construction of three new vaults in 1607 and 1608. This wealth funded future wars and projects, including Dedumose VIII's wars, Senusret X's conquest of Yemen, Senusret XI's conquest of Nubia, Senusret XII's canals, and Amenemhat XII's poor-relief schemes. A fifth of the gold in the royal treasury is estimated to have been amassed during Nebiriau VIII's reign.
In 1612, Nebiriau celebrated his bronze jubilee with large public celebrations, being hailed as a new Amenhotep III or Hatshepsut I. In late 1614, Nebiriau changed his will to name Prince Dedumose as his heir, replacing Prince Horemheb. While finalizing the copies of his will, he suffered a stroke. To ensure a clear succession, he ordered the only complete will to be sent to the army headquarters in the eastern city. King Nebiriau VIII died on January 2, 1615.
Legacy[]
Nebiriau VIII's legacy is marked by his contributions to Egypt's prosperity and stability during his reign. His diplomatic efforts and successful trade agreements with powerful nations like the Ottoman Empire, France, England, Persia, and the Mughal Empire significantly boosted Egypt's economy and international standing. The creation of a foreign quarter in Sesostria to accommodate increased trade activity further exemplifies his forward-thinking approach to economic expansion.
Domestically, Nebiriau's tax reforms alleviated burdens on essential goods, promoting economic prosperity among the lower classes and resulting in a substantial surplus for the kingdom. His financial prudence led to a fortified treasury, which funded future Egyptian projects and military campaigns, including the wars and public works of his successors. Nebiriau VIII's strategic military actions, such as the coordinated attack on pirates and economic sanctions against Nubia, showcased his ability to protect and enhance Egypt's interests. His reign is often celebrated as a period of economic growth and stability, known as the Nebirionic Golden Age.
Despite the king's careful planning for a smooth transition of power to his chosen heir, Prince Dedumose, which would secure the continuity of his policies and achievements Dedumose's reign was marred by conflict and devastation, a stark contrast to the prosperity and peace of his father's rule. As a result, Nebiriau VIII's reign was remembered fondly by the Egyptian people, who looked back on his leadership as a golden era amidst the subsequent turmoil. Nebiriau VIII's reign left a lasting impact on Egypt, fostering an era of prosperity, stability, and progress that endured beyond his death on January 2, 1615. His leadership and reforms cemented his legacy as the trading Pharaoh
Family[]
Name | Rank | Sons | Daughters |
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Nefertari XL | Great Royal Wife | Ahmose, Crown Prince of Egypt, 14/2/1558 - 14/10/1592 Kamose, Crown Prince of Egypt, 12/3/1560 - 12/1/1594 Horemheb, Usurper of Egypt, 27/12/1562 - 26/5/1615 Qemau Kaiu, Defiler of the two lands, 28/2/1564 - 24/9/1620 |
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Nefertiti XXIX | Second Queen | Anhurhotep, Crown Prince of Egypt, 21/2/1558 - 11/2/1593 Amenhotep, Defiler of the two lands, 8/2/1564 - 24/9/1620 |
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Khameranebty XX | Third Queen | Dedumose VIII, King of Egypt, 6/12/1563 - 14/1/1650 Hor, Duke of Sebennytos, 23/9/1567 - 14/5/1630 |
Hatshepsut, 8/11/1565 - 22/4/1640 |
Henutsen XXI | Fourth Queen | Senusret, Prince of Sais, 17/2/1565 - 26/3/1577 Thutmose, Prince Royal, 19/4/1567 - 9/10/1652 |
Twosret, 12/6/1563 - 26/12/1651 Khenemetneferhedjet, 21/8/1569 - 24/3/1624 Sobekneferu, 22/6/1572 - 11/4/1638 |
Henutmira XXXI | Imperial Consort | Ankhwennefer, Prince Palatine of Lower Egypt, 22/8/1565 - 12/1/1594 Sekhemra, Prince Palatine of Lower Egypt 14/7/1572 - 6/6/1646 Tutankhptah, Duke of Alexandria, 20/11/1574 - 6/6/1646 |
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Henuttawy XVI | Imperial Consort | Mentuhotep XI, Usurper of Egypt, 18/7/1597 - 21/11/1643 Sankhkara, Duke of Iuner, 24/3/1600 - 6/6/1646 |
Neferuptah, 14/5/1595 - 22/8/1670 Iset, 18/7/1597 - 24/10/1690 Nefertari, 18/7/1597 - 5/5/1685 Nefertiti, 4/3/1602-12/3/1701 |
Khentkaus XXIII | Imperial Consort | Djoser IV, Usurper of Egypt, 26/2/1595 - 6/5/1643 Unas V, Usurper of Egypt, 18/7/1598 - 18/7/1643 Akhenra, Duke of Herakleopolis 21/4/1602 - 6/6/1646 Tutankhensetamun, Prince Palatine of Upper Egypt, 3/5/1604 - 6/6/1646 |
Name[]
the King was named Nebiriau Simentu Satutankhamun Betnebiriau meaning The possessor of All, son of Montu, son of Tutankhamun (V), of the House of Nebiriau, upon ascending the throne he assumed the Horus Name: Kanakht Tutmesut Seusertawy; meaning: Victorious bull, the (very) image of (re)birth, he who makes the two lands strong; the Nebty Name: Wehemmesut Sekhemkhepesh meaning: He who renews the births, strong with a sword; Golden Horus Name: Wahrenput Nebtawy, meaning: He whose years are constant, lord of the two lands; Praenomen: Merkherpekara Setepenshemzu: Beloved manifestation of the Ka of Ra, chosen by Shezmu; Nomen: Nebiriau, the possessor of all; Sanetjer: Sahathor, son of Hathor and Merinetjer: Merikhnum, Beloved of Khnum.
Titles and Coat of Arms[]
Arms | Style | Duration |
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His Highness, Prince Nebiriau Simentu of Sesostria, | 12 June 1541 - 26 June 1551 | |
His Highness, Prince Nebiriau of Sesostria, Imperial Duke of Syene | 26 June 1551 - 15 November 1566 | |
His Higness, Crown Prince Nebiriau, King's Eldest son of his body, Crown Prince of Upper and Lower Egypt, Price Palatine of Upper Egypt, Imperial Duke of Waset, Hereditary Prince of Tjenu, Hereditary Prince of Nekheb, Imperial Duke of Syene | 15 November 1566 - 6 September 1584 | |
His Higness, Crown Prince Nebiriau, Prince Regent, King's Eldest son of his body, Crown Prince of Upper and Lower Egypt, Price Palatine of Upper Egypt, Imperial Duke of Waset, Hereditary Prince of Tjenu, Hereditary Prince of Nekheb, Imperial Duke of Syene | 6 September 1584 - 23 September 1592 | |
His Majesty, Nebiriau the eighth of his name, Pharaoh of Egypt, King of Upper and Lower Egypt, Lord of Commerce in the East, He who brings peace to the two lands, Lord of the Nile | 23 September 1592 - 12 January 1615 |
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