Amenemhat II

Amenemhat II followed his father Senusret I to the throne, continuing the stable governance established by the earlier Twelfth Dynasty. His era is generally characterised by internal peace, thriving trade, and international diplomacy rather than large-scale military expansion. Evidence of extensive foreign exchange survives in gifts and tribute recorded during his administration.

He reigned from about 1929 BC to 1895 BC, with dates uncertain by about fifteen years. For his burial, Amenemhat II departed from the royal cemetery at Lisht and selected Dahshur, where he built the monument known as the White Pyramid. The structure was constructed largely from mud brick and faced with fine Tura limestone, though much of it was quarried away in later centuries.

Scholars know this king through royal annals inscribed on stone blocks at Memphis, king lists, and contemporary inscriptions. He appointed his son Senusret II as coregent shortly before his death.

Monuments

• White Pyramid at Dahshur
• Tod Treasure context

Explore further

Try the name on the Cartouche Desk, or see where the reign falls on the timeline.