As mentioned below, Hatshepsut reigned because her husband, the current ruler, died, and her son at the tender age of five, was too young to rule. Now, you're going to learn about her reign and how it affected Egypt.
Hatshepsut actually wasn't a very violent person. There are few wars recorded around the time she was in power. I, for one, agree with her - peace all the way! (I'm sort of hippie-ish at heart.) She also encouraged trade. The main form of this was along the Nile River, so I'm sure they used boats a lot during her time.
She also sent and expedition to the land of Punt; which is found on the north-east coast of Africa.
She was also very into building and such. Many Egyptian monuments were built during her time. She was a known sponsor of a vast building program. A well known example is the temple of Amun at Karnak...