Ramses II

Ramses II (c.1304–1237 B.C.), called “the Great,” Egyptian pharaoh, 4th king of the 19th dynasty, who built hundreds of temples and monuments, probably including Abu Simbel and the columned hall at Karnak. He campaigned against the Hittites, and celebrated a battle at Kadesh (1300 B.C.) on many of his monuments, but was eventually obliged to make peace (c.1283). His long reign marked a high point in Egyptian prosperity. He may have been the Pharaoh who allowed the Hebrews to leave Egypt, as told in Exodus in the Bible.

See also: Egypt, Ancient.