Ptolemy XIII vs Ramesses V

Ptolemy XIII became co-ruler of Egypt with his older sister Cleopatra VII after the death of their father Ptolemy XII. He was about 11 years old, and his advisors quickly marginalized Cleopatra. This led to a power struggle between the siblings.

Ptolemy XIII's forces besieged Julius Caesar and Cleopatra VII in the royal palace of Alexandria. The conflict, known as the Alexandrian War, lasted several months. Ptolemy's army was eventually defeated by Roman reinforcements.

Ptolemy XIII's advisors, led by the eunuch Pothinus, expelled Cleopatra VII from Alexandria. She fled to Syria and raised an army to reclaim the throne. This act triggered a civil war in Egypt and drew the attention of Julius Caesar.

Ptolemy XIII drowned in the Nile River while attempting to flee after his defeat at the Battle of the Nile. His death ended the civil war and allowed Cleopatra VII to become sole ruler of Egypt, with Caesar's support.

Ramesses V succeeded his father Ramesses IV but reigned only about four years. His reign was marked by economic difficulties and the growing power of the Amun priesthood at Thebes. The brevity of his rule limited his ability to undertake major projects.

During Ramesses V's reign, the High Priest of Amun, Ramessesnakht, gained significant power, effectively controlling Thebes. This shift marked the beginning of the decline of royal authority in Upper Egypt. The king was unable to curb the priestly influence.

The mummy of Ramesses V shows distinct pustular lesions on the face and body, consistent with smallpox. This is one of the earliest known physical evidence of the disease. His death may have been caused by smallpox, which contributed to the instability of his reign.