King Khufu, also known as Cheops, is a name that resonates through the annals of Egyptian history. His legacy as a pharaoh is intertwined with the Great Pyramid of Giza, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Today we delve into the life, reign, and enduring legacy of King Khufu, providing a glimpse into the world of one of Egypt’s most iconic rulers and discovering the real history behind his fictional counterpart in the YA fantasy novel, Treasures of Egypt.

The Great Builder

Khufu, the second pharaoh of the Fourth Dynasty, ruled Egypt around 2585-2560 BCE. He was the son of King Sneferu and Queen Hetepheres and ascended the throne following his father's death.

Khufu's most significant achievement is undoubtedly the construction of the Great Pyramid at Giza. It was built using an estimated 2.3 million stone blocks and stands as the largest and most iconic pyramid in Egypt. The pyramid, initially standing at 480 feet tall, was Khufu's final resting place, intended to ensure his immortality in the afterlife.

Under Khufu's rule, there were remarkable advancements in pyramid construction techniques. His architects and builders perfected the art of quarrying, cutting, and transporting huge limestone blocks. The precise alignment of the pyramid’s sides and its internal structures showcased an advanced understanding of geometry and astronomy.

Contrary to common belief, the Great Pyramid wasn’t built by slaves but rather by paid workers who were given proper burial near the pyramid complex. According to ancient Egyptian beliefs, burial near the king was considered a great honor and a means to aid the deceased in the afterlife. This was an honor reserved for the royal family and elite among the nobility. This alone shows how much the pyramid builders were valued by the king and society.

Khufu’s Reign

Besides the construction of the Great Pyramid, Khufu's reign was marked by military campaigns that defended Egypt's borders and expeditions to the Sinai Peninsula for valuable resources like copper and turquoise. These activities not only protected the kingdom but also contributed to its economic growth and stability which in turn supported the mega project that was the pyramid of Khufu.

Khufu's reign also saw a strong centralization of power. Remember that during Khufu’s reign, Egypt was still a new country and the Egyptians were still figuring out what a country meant and how it should function. That’s why Khufu established a robust bureaucracy, asserting authority over resources, land, and people. This centralization allowed for effective governance and laid the foundation for how construction projects should be managed in the future.

A Man’s Legacy

Khufu was married to Queen Meritites and Queen Henutsen, among others. He had numerous children, including his heir, Prince Kawab, who died before assuming kingship. His second son, Menkaura, built the second tallest pyramid next to his father’s and the famous Sphinx.

Despite being depicted by some as a harsh ruler, evidence suggests that the laborers building his pyramid were paid and called themselves “friends of Khufu.” Now, of course, we can’t tell whether the workers were actually on board with the name they were given by their boss. Nevertheless, rumors of his cruelty have persisted, contributing to his infamy. What we do know, though, was that after his death, an Egyptian cult worshiped him as a god.

Khufu was also a supporter of the arts which led to a boom in artistic expression in ancient Egypt. His reign saw the creation of exquisite works of art, which added to the cultural richness of his kingdom.

A little fun fact about Khufu: The only thing left of the man whose pyramid had been the tallest building in the world until the construction of the Lincoln Cathedral in London is a tiny statue.

Conclusion

Regardless of the man’s personal life or traits, King Khufu's reign was a period of significant advancement in ancient Egyptian civilization. His accomplishments in architecture, military campaigns, economic growth, and cultural patronage left an indelible mark on history. The Great Pyramid, a testament to his ambition and vision, continues to inspire awe and admiration as a symbol of ancient Egyptian ingenuity and the sheer power of human determination. So while we admire Khufu’s achievement we should remember that it was built on the backs of thousands of workers. Literally.

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