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How did Hatshepsut become the dominant ruler during Thutmose III's early reign?
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Following the death of Thutmose II, Hatshepsut initially served as a conventional regent for her young stepson, Thutmose III. However, between his second and seventh regnal years, she transitioned to become the dominant ruler through several strategic actions:12
- Assumption of Kingship: By the end of his seventh regnal year, Hatshepsut was crowned king and adopted the full royal titulary. She utilized religious legitimacy, such as claims that the oracle of Amon at Karnak proclaimed her successor, or propaganda asserting her father, Thutmose I, had designated her as his heir.123
- Political Control: She secured her position by placing loyal officials in key government roles, most notably Senenmut, who served as steward and tutor to her daughter.32
- Royal Representation: She adopted traditional male kingly regalia and was often depicted with a male body in art, aligning herself with established Egyptian conventions of kingship to solidify her authority.2
As corulers, Hatshepsut functioned as the dominant partner until her death, while Thutmose III remained theoretically in control of the land.13