Thutmose I (Akheperkare)
1493 - 1481

The Obelisk of Thutmose I at Karnak

Photo courtesy and ©1996 Richard Deurer, 
Ancient Gallery Directory
Used with permission.

Thutmose I ruled during the 18th Dynasty. He was a commoner by birth. He married Ahmose, a sister of Amenhotep I, and was named king when Amenhotep died childless. Thutmose and Ahmose had two sons. These sons did not become the next rulers after Thutmose's death. The reign was given to Thutmose II, who was born to Mutnofret.

Thutmose spent time battling Nubia. He defeated the Nubian chief in a hand to hand battle. Thutmose returned to Thebes with the Nubian chief's body hanging over the front of his ship. Thutmose also fought the Hyksos tribes. To celebrate his victory Thutmose built a hall at Karnak. It was built entirely of cedar wood columns.

Thutmose was buried at Deir el Bahri. His leadership in combat created a peace at Thebia.