According to NNDB.com, Ramses II, the third pharaoh of the 19th dynasty of ancient Egypt, is renowned for his success in battle (especially against the Hittites) and for his contributions as a builder and religious figure. He ruled from 1279 B.C. to 1213 B.C.Continue Reading
In his second year as pharaoh, Ramses II engaged in several sea battles, defeating the Shekelesh, Lukka and Shardana peoples. After these victories, he engaged in battle with the feared Hittites. Ramses II defeated the Hittites in battle by a narrow margin several times. Realizing that he might not be able to continue his victory streak, Ramses opted to make peace with the Hittites by marrying a Hittite princess and by agreeing to the world's first peace treaty in 1258 B.C.
Ramses II's contributions to the realms of architecture and religion are intertwined. He issued the construction of several temples and statues (many of which were designed to bring himself praise), such as the Rammeseum, the Abu Simbel and a variety of monuments in Nubia. His best-known architectural accomplishment is the Tomb of Nefertari, his chief wife. Ramses II had an impressive lifespan of roughly 90 years. He is commonly referred to as Ramses the Great for his contributions to Ancient Egypt.Learn more about Ancient Egypt