The first female pharaoh of ancient Egypt is Hatshepsut. She ruled during the Eighteenth Dynasty, around 1479-1458 BCE, and was one of the most successful pharaohs in Egyptian history. Hatshepsut initially served as regent for her stepson, Thutmose III, but she later declared herself pharaoh, adopting male titles and even depicted herself in the traditional pharaonic style. Her reign is noted for extensive trade expeditions, monumental building projects, and relative peace.