Hatshepsut, as one of the few female pharaohs of ancient Egypt, significantly changed the kingdom during her reign. While she is known for some military expeditions, her most notable contributions were in the realm of trade and architecture.
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Increased Wealth through Trade: Hatshepsut is particularly famous for expanding trade networks. One of her most significant achievements was the successful expedition to Punt (likely located in the Horn of Africa), which brought back valuable resources such as gold, incense, ebony, and exotic animals. This trade expansion greatly increased Egypt's wealth and economic power.
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Architectural Contributions: Hatshepsut is also known for her impressive building projects, including her mortuary temple at Deir el-Bahari, which is considered a masterpiece of ancient architecture. This temple not only served as a place for her worship but also demonstrated her power and legitimacy as pharaoh.
Overall, while Hatshepsut did undertake some military campaigns, her most enduring legacy lies in her promotion of trade and monumental construction, which strengthened Egypt during her reign.