Psamtik II

Psamtik II was the son of Necho II, who ruled Egypt from 610 to 595 BC. Psamtik II succeeded his father and continued his policy of expanding Egypt’s influence in the Near East. He led a military campaign against the kingdom of Kush in Nubia, which had threatened Egypt’s southern border in the past. He defeated the Kushites and sacked their capital of Napata, leaving behind many monuments and inscriptions. He also visited Phoenicia and maintained good relations with the Babylonians, who were the dominant power in the region. Psamtik II was interested in the ancient history and culture of Egypt, and he initiated the destruction of the memorials of the 25th dynasty, which had been founded by Kushite kings. He also supported the priesthood of the god Amun at Thebes, and his daughter Ankhnesneferibre became the divine adoratrice of Amun, the highest religious position for a woman in Egypt. Psamtik II died in 589 BC and was buried in Sais, his hometown. He was succeeded by his son Apries, who faced a rebellion by the native Egyptians against his rule.