How Was the King of Ancient Egypt Decided?
The king, or Pharaoh, of ancient Egypt was of utmost importance to society as he was required to lead his people, keep order and even perform religious rituals. Thus, when a king had to be replaced, a suitable individual had to be chosen before the Pharaoh's death, typically by law or by the Pharaoh's choice.
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Succession
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The laws of ancient Egypt dictated that the succeeding Pharaoh would be the king's oldest son provided the mother was the king's main wife. If for some reason this was impossible, then the next Pharaoh would be a son from one of the king's lesser wives. It is unknown how the heir was chosen if the Pharaoh had many sons from lesser wives.
Lineage
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The king's chief wife was also a relative of the king, which meant that the successor was of pure, royal blood and more fit to succeed than those sons of the king's lesser wives.
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Alternatives
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If there was controversy to the succession, the Pharaoh could appoint a co-regent so that two people could rule. Additionally, if the king had no sons, another suitable male relative chosen by the reining Pharaoh could take the throne.
Responsibilities
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Besides the usual responsibilities as king, the succeeding Pharaoh had responsibilities to his predecessor such as overseeing his burial, thus confirming order in the afterlife.
Female Rule
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If a king was too young to rule, then the mother would become regent and act as king until the boy came of age, resulting in a brief reign for some women. One notable exception was Hatshepsut, who became regent to her son Thuthmosis III, but decided to continue to reign as Pharaoh for the rest of her life.
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