Ramesses V vs Shoshenq III

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.

Shoshenq III became pharaoh of Egypt's 22nd Dynasty, succeeding his father Osorkon II. His reign marked a period of fragmentation as local rulers gained autonomy, weakening central authority.

Shoshenq III commissioned a monumental portal at the Temple of Bastet in Bubastis, his dynastic capital. This construction project demonstrated his continued patronage of traditional Egyptian religion despite political decline.

During Shoshenq III's reign, the High Priests of Amun at Thebes, particularly Harsiese, asserted independence, effectively splitting Upper Egypt from the 22nd Dynasty's control. This deepened the fragmentation of Egypt.

Shoshenq III died after a reign of 39 years, one of the longest of the 22nd Dynasty. His lengthy rule did not reverse the trend of decentralization, and his successors inherited a weakened kingdom.