Rameses III, King of Egypt

Book excerpt: Rameses III--often dubbed the "last great pharaoh"--lived and ruled during the first half of the twelfth century bc, a tumultuous time that saw the almost complete overthrow of established order in the eastern Mediterranean. Among Rameses's achievements was the preservation of Egypt as a nation-state in the face of external assault. However, his reign also saw increasing dissatisfaction, which culminated in his assassination. This richly illustrated book follows the king from his birth to his resurrection, describing the key events of the reign, his major monuments, and the people and events that led to these becoming once again known to the world.