Mentuhotep III vs Psamtik III

Mentuhotep III became pharaoh after the death of Mentuhotep II, inheriting a reunified Egypt. His reign was short, approximately 10 years, and focused on consolidating the Middle Kingdom's achievements.

Mentuhotep III dispatched a trading expedition to the land of Punt, likely located in the Horn of Africa. The expedition brought back myrrh, frankincense, gold, and exotic goods, demonstrating Egypt's continued trade networks and wealth.

Mentuhotep III continued construction at the mortuary temple complex of Mentuhotep II at Deir el-Bahri. He added a small temple and other structures, contributing to the site's architectural development.

Psamtik III ruled for only six months before the Persian invasion. His brief reign was marked by the looming threat of the Persian army. He had little time to implement any significant policies or reforms. His reign is primarily remembered for its abrupt end with the Persian conquest.

Psamtik III's Egyptian army was defeated by the Persian forces under Cambyses II at Pelusium. The Persians used a strategy of placing cats and other sacred animals in front of their lines, causing Egyptian archers to hesitate. This defeat led to the fall of Egypt to the Achaemenid Empire.

After the defeat at Pelusium, Psamtik III was captured by the Persians. He was initially treated with respect but later executed for plotting a rebellion. His death marked the end of the 26th dynasty and the beginning of Persian rule over Egypt, which lasted for over a century.