National Geographic’s documentary series, Lost Treasures of Egypt, returns with a new episode, “Ramses: Master of War,” airing on Thursday, June 27, 2024, at 8:00 p.m. The episode looks into the life and military conquests of Ramses II, also known as Ramses the Great, one of ancient Egypt’s most celebrated and powerful pharaohs.
Archaeologists and experts examine the battle strategies of Ramses the Second, shedding light on his military campaigns and his reputation as a formidable warrior pharaoh. Ramses II, the third pharaoh of ancient Egypt’s 19th dynasty, reigned from 1279 BCE to 1213 BCE. With a rule spanning approximately 66 years, he is believed to have had the second longest, and possibly the longest, reign in ancient Egyptian history.
The episode explores Ramses’ military prowess, highlighting his conduct of at least 15 military campaigns, all but one resulting in victories. A particular focus is placed on his depiction in the Beit el-Wali temple, where he is shown charging into battle in a war chariot, with his two young sons, Amun-her-khepsef and Khaemwaset, following in their own chariots.
“Ramses: Master of War” also provides insights into Ramses’ early life, including his birth around 1303 BCE and his upbringing in the royal court. Named after his grandfather, Ramses I, he was the son of Seti I and Queen Tuya. Ramses received an education befitting a future leader and is believed to have begun exercising power at a young age, accompanying his father on foreign campaigns during his teenage years.
Lost Treasures of Egypt: Ramses: Master of War airs Thursday, June 27, 2024, at 8:00 p.m. on National Geographic.
