| Tutankhamun V The Stoic | |
|---|---|
| |
| Pharaoh of Egypt | |
| Reign | 12 May 1547 - 23 September 1592 |
| Coronation | 28 October 1547 (Mennefer) 6 January 1548 (Waset) |
| Predecessor | Senusret VIII |
| Successor | Nebiriau VIII |
| Born | June 17, 1510 Palace of Papyrus Hennen Nesut, Egypt |
| Died | September 23, 1592 (aged 82) |
| Spouse | Tuya XX, Ankhesenamun II, Nefertari XXXIX, Nefertiti XXVIII, Sitamun IX, Tiye XXVIII, Tiaa XVII |
| Issue | Nebiriau VIII Amongst Others |
| Full name | |
| Horus Name: Kanakht Tutmesut Sementawy Nebty Name: Wehemmesut Sekhemkhepesh Golden Horus Name: Neferrenput Neferkhau Praenomen: Smenkhkheperkara Setepenshesmetet Nomen: Tutankhamun Samut Merishu | |
| House | Nebiriau |
| Father | Senusret VIII |
| Mother | Tiye XXVII |
| Religion | Kemetism |
Tutankhamun V (Tutankhamun Sasenusret Hesutnebiriau; 17 June 1510 – 23 September 1592) was King of the United Kingdom of Egypt from 12 May 1547 until his death in 1592. Tutankhamun V is often referred to as "the Great" and "the Stoic," was a pivotal figure in Egyptian history, known for his diplomatic acumen, political reforms, and resilience in the face of personal tragedies. Born on June 17, 1510, at the Palace of Papyrus in Hennen Nesut, Tutankhamun was the eldest son of Pharaoh Senusret VIII and Tiye XXVII, his Great Royal Wife. From a young age, Tutankhamun displayed exceptional intellect and military prowess. His early education under renowned tutors like the High Priest of Ptah and General Imyremeshaw Sankhkara shaped his understanding of astronomy, philosophy, combat, and war strategy. By the age of 20, he was widely regarded as highly knowledgeable and skilled, earning a place in the crown council.
In August 1531, Tutankhamun's diplomatic skills were put to the test when he negotiated the Menphite Treaty of 1531 with a Venetian envoy, normalizing trade relations. This success led to his integration into high-level decision-making, culminating in a peace treaty with the Ottomans in 1531, which secured long-lasting peace and strategic benefits for Egypt. His personal life also saw significant developments, including marriages to Tuya XX and Nefertiti XXVIII, resulting in several children and alliances that strengthened Egypt's position. Tutankhamun's role expanded further when his father appointed him Viceroy of Upper Egypt in 1540, where he demonstrated effective governance and military leadership. The transition to regent-only governance in 1545 marked a significant turning point, signaling Tutankhamun's increasing responsibilities and his eventual ascension to the throne in 1547 as Tutankhamun V. His coronations were grand affairs, attended by dignitaries from across the known world, highlighting Egypt's diplomatic reach and prestige.
As Pharaoh, Tutankhamun initiated diplomatic efforts to renew and forge alliances, stabilize internal governance, and promote prosperity. His reign saw moments of triumph, such as quelling rebellions and resolving disputes, alongside personal tragedies that tested his resolve. One of Tutankhamun's enduring legacies is the establishment of constitutional principles, including term limits and safeguards against political violence. His leadership during crises, like the attempted assassination of Governor Paser XIX, demonstrated a commitment to justice and stability. The later years of Tutankhamun's reign focused on fortifications, infrastructure projects, and succession planning. His last will and testament, addressing the potential of his heirs, reflected his foresight and concern for Egypt's future stability. Tutankhamun's passing in 1592 marked the end of an era characterized by diplomatic prowess, political reforms, and personal fortitude. His legacy endures as a testament to a ruler who navigated challenges with wisdom and strength, leaving an indelible mark on Egyptian history.
Name[]
Tutankhamun was born Tutankhamun Sihor Meriankhra Sasenusret Betnebiriau, His birth name meaning Tutankhamun son of horus beloved life of Ra, son of Senusret (VIII), of the House of Nebiriau, upon taking the throne he altered his name to the new royal protocol of 7 Names, His horus name was Kanakht Tutmesut Sementawy: Victorious bull, the (very) image of (re)birth, who (re)-establishes the two lands; Nebty Name: Wehemmesut Sekhemkhepesh: He who renews the births, strong with a sword; Golden Horus: Neferrenput Neferkhau: He whose years are perfect, in his splendid incarnation; Praenomen: Smenkhkheperkara Setepenshesmetet: The soul of Ra is created vigorously, chosen by Shesmetet; Nomen: Tutankhamun: Living Image of Amun; Sanetjer: Samut: Son of Mut; Merinetjer: Merishu: Beloved of Shu. He is known as Tutankhamun the Great or the Stoic
Early Life[]
The future king was born to Pharaoh Senusret VIII and his Great Royal Wife Tiye XXVII on June 17, 1510, at the Palace of Papyrus in Hennen Nesut. He was the eldest child of his father and was named Tutankhamun Sihor Meriankhra at birth. Early on, it became evident that the young prince shared his father's passion for history and philosophy. He also displayed military prowess, much like many of his ancestors. By the age of 16, he had become a skilled hunter, boasting 15 kills in a single day. His father, recognizing his potential, enlisted the expertise of various tutors. The High Priest of Ptah taught him astronomy, philosophy, and the arts; General Imyremeshaw Sankhkara instructed him in combat, war strategy, geography, and history; and Constantine Theophilus, a Greek mathematician residing in Alexandria, imparted knowledge of Greek, Latin, and European affairs.
By the time he reached 20, Tutankhamun was widely regarded as highly knowledgeable. In August 1531, he engaged in diplomacy, signing the Menphite Treaty of 1531 with a Venetian envoy, which normalized trade relations. Impressed by his diplomatic skills, his father integrated him into the crown council. Tutankhamun then proposed a peace treaty with the Ottomans, with his father dictating the terms and Tutankhamun finalizing the details. A dispatch was sent to the Ottoman Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent, who accepted the terms. The treaty established a peace pact lasting 150 years, restored trade between Sesostria and Constantinople, ensured Ottoman neutrality in Egyptian affairs, and secured Ottoman support in case of Safavid invasions or Arab and Bedouin raids.
In 1532, Tutankhamun married his main consort, Tuya XX, the daughter of the Priest of Iunet. Their first sons, twins princes Senusret and Amenemhat, born in 1533, sadly succumbed to measles in 1540. Another set of twins was born in 1535, but only the younger survived. Tragedy struck again in 1537 with the death of a daughter shortly after birth. However, a daughter born in 1539 survived. In 1541, triplets were born: princes Nebiriau, Amenemhat (II), and Princess Tuya (II). In 1540, his father appointed him Viceroy of Upper Egypt. During this time, he married an Ethiopian princess, Nefertiti XXVIII, with whom he had princes Herihor Ioas and George Siamun, both of whom became important generals during the early reign of his grandson, Dedumose Severus. After successfully dealing with a Bedouin coalition following a raid in the Djesdeset Oasis, he established his dominance by taking the coalition's leader as his food taster and recruiting the coalition soldiers into his personal army. Additionally, he commissioned the construction of a new university in Waset. In 1545, he was summoned back to the capital, marking a significant transition in his political and military responsibilities.
Reign[]
Regency[]
His father appointed him regent-only in 1545, marking a departure from the old practice of co-regency that had fallen out of fashion since the reign of Nyuserra V. The last instance of co-regency was during the reign of Khufu III and Khafra III, who were twins, making it an exception. Therefore, Tutankhamun was not considered a pharaoh until after the death of his father.
During his regency, Tutankhamun opened parliament in 1546 and 1547. He also planned two amendments to the Egyptian constitution. The first stipulated that the country would revert to an absolute monarchy during an extended period of crisis, but crucially, the prime minister would still need to be consulted in decision-making processes. The second amendment specified that any appointments made during the period of absolutism would require re-appointment by parliament upon the restoration of constitutional rule. These amendments aimed to balance stability with necessary flexibility in governance.
Acession[]
In 1547, Senusret VIII passed away, and Tutankhamun ascended to the throne as Tutankhamun V at the age of 36. His father's funeral drew the largest crowd the nation had ever seen, with condolences pouring in from notable figures such as Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent of the Ottoman Empire, Doge Francesco Donato of Venice, Taharqa VIII the Qore of Nubia, Shah of Iran Tahmasp I, Roman Emperor Constantine XXI, and Emperor of Ethiopia Gelawdewos. Representatives from Genoa, the Ottoman Empire, the Papacy, Nubia, Ethiopia, Venice, and France attended the burial, reflecting the widespread recognition of Senusret VIII's reign.
Tutankhamun used this transition to renew existing treaties with Venice, the Ottoman Empire, and Nubia while forging new ones with Genoa and France. He also reaffirmed the commitment of the Egyptian crown to support Christian pilgrims, as conveyed through the Papal envoy. Tutankhamun's official coronations took place on October 28, 1547, in Mennefer as King of Lower Egypt, followed by a second ceremony on January 6, 1548, in Waset as King of Upper Egypt. A third coronation occurred on June 9, 1548, as monarch of the United Egyptian Kingdom. During this final ceremony, he solidified a betrothal to the daughter of the Nubian king, and they were married in 1549.
In 1549, a rebellion against the Nomarch of Syene was swiftly quelled, with Tutankhamun opting for lenient sentences for the rebels initially. However, upon discovering that a Nubian governor had incited the unrest to sow instability, Tutankhamun demanded the nubian governor's execution, which the Qore of Nubia agreed to in 1550. Tutankhamun also served as an arbiter in a land dispute between Ethiopia and Punt, successfully resolving the issue.
Despite this success, a revolt erupted in Punt, prompting Tutankhamun to dispatch the Egyptian army to assist King Sihathor XII. The rebellion was promptly crushed, and Tutankhamun convinced Sihathor to adopt a constitution, signaling a shift towards more structured governance. Tutankhamun's return to the capital in triumph after these events was commemorated as a national holiday, a celebration that continued throughout his reign.
The Rotten Parliament[]
In 1551, King Tutankhamun reappointed Paser XIX of the Paser-Merimontu Family, which had faithfully served the crown for generations, as Governor. Despite Paser's years of good service and personal popularity, power-hungry nobles grew concerned that the Paser-Merimontu family might hold the title indefinitely. Twelve Members of Parliament accused the governor of treason and conspiracy with the Qore of Nubia, prompting a full inquiry that took place on May 16, 1551.
Governor Paser attempted to resign, but Pharaoh Tutankhamun V, convinced of his innocence, refused to accept his resignation. Tutankhamun participated in the trial as a judge, and Paser was ultimately vindicated. However, during the trial, a corruption scandal emerged, leading to the arrest of six MPs involved in the trial against the governor. As a result of these events, Pharaoh Tutankhamun established the principle of term limits, to be implemented after Paser XIX's governorship. While Tutankhamun's confidence in parliament was shaken, he continued to trust Governor Paser XIX and his eventual successor, Huy IX. The scandal was resolved in 1552, with Paser remaining in power.
Tensions remained high, leading to an attempted assassination of the governor in 1553, which tragically resulted in the death of Paser's wife, Lady Nebset, a member of the Royal Family. This event marked one of the first in a series of personal tragedies for Pharaoh Tutankhamun. Following Lady Nebset's funeral, King Tutankhamun convened an extraordinary session of Parliament, delivering a speech on the dangers of political violence and warning against destabilizing the Egyptian state. Despite these efforts, another assassination attempt occurred just two weeks later, resulting in Paser sustaining a wound to his left arm.
Enraged by the continued threats to Governor Paser, Tutankhamun V implemented martial law, a curfew in the capital, and suspended the Constitution. He declared the Prime Minister under his personal protection and issued a severe warning that any further attempts on the Prime Minister's life would result in severe consequences, including land seizure, obliteration of names, and execution by burning alive for the perpetrators and their entire families. Under the restored absolutism during this period, Pharaoh Tutankhamun enshrined the punishment for attempting to assassinate a governor into the Constitution, a punishment that remains unchanged to this day. He also formalized term limits for representatives, setting them at five years, renewable twice consecutively. Constitutional rule was restored in 1555, and King Tutankhamun's decrees receiving ratification from Parliament.
The Quiet Period and the decade of Sorrow[]
The period between the restoration of constitutional rule in 1555 and the resignation of Paser XIX in 1570 is known as The Quiet Period in Egyptian history. This era was characterized by a lack of major events, including the absence of wars, which contributed to a pacified parliament. The decade witnessed increased prosperity, marked by the discovery of a new gold mine in lower Nubia in 1556 and a turquoise mine in the Biau Peninsula in 1558.
King Tutankhamun V dedicated the years from 1559 to 1569 to fortifying Egyptian positions in the western desert and the Biau Peninsula. He also initiated an expedition to the ancient site of Per-Ramesses, reviving a project first envisioned during the reign of Senusret VII. The restoration of Per-Ramesses, initially started by his son Sobekhotep XVI and later resumed during the reign of Neferhotep V, was finally completed during Tutankhamun's reign, with construction lasting from 1564 to 1581.
In 1570, Governor Paser XIX resigned, and his son Huy was elected as Huy IX. Huy had a better relationship with the opposition and was known for his strong will. He also married into the Royal Family, continuing a tradition set by his father. However, The year 1570 marked the onset of a series of personal tragedies in the life of Pharaoh Tutankhamun. On June 12, 1570, his newborn son Ahmose succumbed to an infection. The following year, on April 13, 1571, tragedy struck again as his first grandson, son of the future Nebiriau VIII, passed away from scarlet fever. This string of losses continued on August 26, when his consort Ankhesenamun II died of cancer. In early 1572, another of his sons, Amenemhat, passed away, leading to the ascension of Prince Shoshenq to the role of Prince Royal in 1574.
The year 1574 brought further sorrow with the death of former Governor Paser XIX, one of the Pharaoh's closest friends and confidants. The same year also witnessed the passing of his daughter, Princess Henuttawy-Duatiset. In 1576, tragedy struck once more with the death of his sister Tiaa, who fell down a flight of stairs. However, it was the events of 1577 that deeply impacted the Pharaoh and the nation. His beloved grandson, Prince Senusret, drowned in the Nile, leading many to speculate that this event influenced the future behavior of his successor, Dedumose VIII, who was perceived to become more ruthless.
The year 1577 continued to bring sorrow as the mother of the drowned prince died while pregnant with twins. Shortly after, Tutankhamun faced yet another loss with the death of his daughter Hatshepsut, who succumbed to a stroke. In a final tragic turn, Princess Mutnofret, his half-sister, descended into madness following the mysterious circumstances surrounding the death of her son.
Amidst these personal trials, 1578 offered a brief respite as all remaining family members survived the year. However, this respite was short-lived, as in 1579, war erupted between Egypt and Nubia. Although Egypt emerged victorious, the conflict resulted in heavy casualties, including notable figures such as the Dukes of Dukes of Amentet, Huigesamenti, Nitmehetet, Waset, Minu and Amty-Khenti, the counts of Sepedju, Khepesh, Bubastis, Mahedj, Meseh, Nekhen and Duau, and barons Prehotep and Herihor Setepenra and prince Ankhhor the king's grandson. Despite these personal and national losses, King Tutankhamun remained steadfast, fulfilling his duties without showing weakness. It was noted that after every funeral he would then go to his ministers and return to the business of government immediately the governor once asked him how and why he never seemed to grieve the king responded " the people look to me for strength what sort of a leader would I be if I showed any weakness doing Hard times my father Senusret the Justified taught me the dangers of a pharaoh showing weakness my ancestor Neferhotep V stands as a testament to it"
Final years[]
The next decade marked the twilight of Pharaoh Tutankhamun's reign. In 1581, he embarked on his final construction spree, overseeing the construction of a temple to Anhur in Sesostria and a new wall in Syene. These projects were completed in 1585. During the preceding year, he led his last two campaigns—one to suppress the Bedouins in the Libyan Desert, particularly defending the Oracle of Amun, and another in the Biau Peninsula. During his Victory Parade, held on September 6, 1584, the Pharaoh proclaimed his son, Nebiriau, as prince regent. As his reign drew to a close, Tutankhamun continued to meet with ambassadors, tour the nation, and occasionally preside over legal cases. However, the administrative responsibilities were gradually shifted to the prince regent.
In his final years, Tutankhamun took note of the qualities and flaws of his heir's sons. In his last will and testament, which was intended solely for Prince Nebiriau, he made a prediction regarding Prince Dedumose's future reign. Tutankhamun foresaw that if Dedumose could control his impulses, he had the potential to become one of Egypt's greatest monarchs; however, if he succumbed to darker tendencies, he could bring about the kingdom's downfall. In 1590, Tutankhamun welcomed new deputies into Parliament and delivered his last opening speech. However, he fell ill in June with a fever that nearly claimed his life. Although he recovered in March 1591, he suffered a stroke in December, leading to a gradual decline in health. Despite making a final public appearance on May 12 at an event commemorating the 45th anniversary of his reign, Tutankhamun's health deteriorated. He appeared to rally briefly in June but ultimately collapsed on September 22, 1592, and passed away the following day at noon. He was mummified and buried 70 days later in the royal sepulcher in the western city.
Legacy[]
Tutankhamun V, also known as "the Great" and "the Stoic," left a lasting legacy as a pivotal figure in Egyptian history. His reign, characterized by political reforms, diplomatic prowess, and personal tragedies, shaped the trajectory of the Egyptian kingdom during a crucial period. During the period he acted as regent for his father, Tutankhamun demonstrated astute leadership by enacting constitutional amendments aimed at balancing monarchy with parliamentary governance. These amendments, ratified in 1546 and 1547, ensured a degree of flexibility during crises while upholding parliamentary oversight and accountability.
His ascension to the throne as Tutankhamun V in 1547 was met with widespread acclaim and international recognition. The funeral of his father, Senusret VIII, drew dignitaries and condolences from various powerful entities, reflecting Tutankhamun's diplomatic acumen and the respect he commanded on the global stage. Throughout his reign, Tutankhamun navigated domestic challenges, such as rebellions and political scandals, with resolve and pragmatism. His firm stance against corruption and political violence, exemplified during the trial of Governor Paser XIX in 1551, underscored his commitment to justice and good governance. The period following the restoration of constitutional rule in 1555 and the subsequent "Quiet Period" until 1570 witnessed economic prosperity and infrastructure development under Tutankhamun's stewardship. His focus on fortifying Egyptian positions and overseeing monumental construction projects reflected a dedication to national security and cultural preservation.
However, Tutankhamun's reign was also marked by personal tragedies, including the loss of family members and close confidants. These experiences, while deeply affecting the Pharaoh, showcased his resilience and unwavering commitment to leadership despite adversity. In his final years, Tutankhamun's attention turned to succession planning, recognizing the potential and challenges posed by his heirs. His last will and testament, particularly the prophetic insights regarding Prince Dedumose, highlighted Tutankhamun's foresight and concern for the kingdom's future stability. Tutankhamun's passing in 1592 marked the end of an era characterized by political transformation, diplomatic prowess, and personal fortitude. His legacy continues to resonate in Egyptian history as a testament to a ruler who navigated complex challenges while leaving a lasting impact on governance and leadership principles.
Marriages and Issue[]
Tuya XX, Great Royal Wife
| Wife | Rank | Sons | Daughters |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tuya XX, 1510-1586 | Great Royal Wife | Senusret, Crown Prince of Egypt, 1533-1540 Amenemhat I, Prince Royal, 1533-1540 Usermaatra, Prince of Egypt, 1535-1535 Dedumose, Prince of Alexandria, 1535-1608[1] Nebiriau VIII, King of Egypt, 1541-1615 Sneferu, Prince of Egypt, 1541-1615 |
Tuya II, Princess Royal, 1541-1593 |
| Ankhesenamun II, 1509-1571 | Second Queen | Amenemhat II, Prince Royal, 1533-1573 Shoshenq, Prince Royal, 1535-1630 |
Tuya I, Princess Royal, 1537-1537 Hatshepsut, Princess of Egypt, 1545-1577 |
| Nefertari XXXIX, 1515-1598 | Third Queen | Sobekemsaf V, King-elect of Egypt 1541-1636[2] Senedj II, Usurper of Egypt 1543-1623 |
Henuttawy-Duatiset, Princess of Egypt 1549-1576 |
| Nefertiti XXVIII, 1519-1600 | Fourth Queen | Herihor Iyoas, Prince of Egypt, 1547-1630 George Siamun, Prince of Egypt, 1550-1632 |
|
| Tiye XXVIII, 1525-1622 | Imperial Consort | Ptolemy Merenptah, Prince of Egypt, 1550-1622 Alexander Ramesses, Prince of Egypt, 1552-1628 Philip Djoser, Prince of Egypt, 1555-1619 |
Cleopatra Merimut, Princess of Egypt, 1557-1632 Tiye Berenice, Princess of Egypt, 1560-1645 |
| Sitamun IX, 1527-1593 | Imperial Consort | Djehutyemhat II, Prince of Egypt, 1561-1641 | Duathathor, Princess of Egypt, 1553-1623 Henuttawy, Princess of Egypt, 1555-1614 |
| Tiaa XVII, 1540-1624 | Imperial Consort | Ahmose, Prince of Egypt, 1570-1570 Shumose I, Usurper of Egypt, 1573-1641 Thutmose VIII, Usurper of Egypt, 1576-1644 |
Tiaa, Princess of Egypt, 1572-1660 |
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