Berenice IV vs Smenkhkare

Berenice IV became queen of Egypt after her father Ptolemy XII Auletes was driven out by a popular revolt. She ruled as sole monarch, co-opting her sister Cleopatra VI Tryphaena as co-ruler. Her reign was marked by political instability and conflict with Rome.

Berenice IV married Archelaus, a high priest of Comana in Cappadocia, to strengthen her position. The marriage was opposed by Rome, which supported her father Ptolemy XII. This act further strained relations with the Roman Republic.

After Ptolemy XII Auletes was restored to the throne with Roman military support, he ordered the execution of Berenice IV. She was killed for her usurpation and opposition to his rule. Her death ended her brief reign and consolidated Ptolemy XII's power.

Evidence suggests Smenkhkare may have served as co-regent with Akhenaten in the final years of the latter's reign. Inscriptions from Amarna show them ruling together, possibly to manage the transition of power. This co-regency, if it occurred, was brief and ended with Akhenaten's death.

Smenkhkare ruled for a very short period, likely less than a year, during the turbulent Amarna period. He succeeded Akhenaten and may have been a co-regent before becoming sole ruler. His reign is poorly documented, and his identity remains debated, with theories suggesting he was a brother or son of Akhenaten.

Smenkhkare is believed to have been buried in Tomb KV55 in the Valley of the Kings. The tomb contained a mummy, a gilded coffin, and canopic jars, but the identity of the occupant is disputed. The burial was disturbed in antiquity, and the remains have been linked to both Smenkhkare and Akhenaten.