How did Thutmose III become king of Egypt as a child?

Thutmose III became king of Egypt as a child following the death of his father, Thutmose II. Because there was no other prince with a stronger claim to the throne, the young boy was crowned king despite his youth.12

Following his accession, his stepmother and aunt, Hatshepsut—who was also the wife of Thutmose II—initially served as his regent. During the first few years of his reign, Thutmose III theoretically held the throne, but Hatshepsut governed the land. By the seventh year of his reign, Hatshepsut assumed the full title, dress, and insignia of a king, effectively becoming the dominant ruler in a joint reign that lasted until her death. During this period of minority, Thutmose III received an education focused on military skills, including archery and horsemanship, preparing him for his future role as a powerful sole ruler.132