Origins & Early Life

Senusret II or Sesostris II (died c. 1878 BC) was the fourth king of the 12th Dynasty of Egypt. His pyramid was constructed at El-Lahun. Senusret II took a great deal of interest in the Faiyum oasis region and began work on an extensive irrigation system from Bahr Yussef through to Lake Moeris through the construction of a dike at El-Lahun and the addition of a network of drainage canals.

Pivotal Works & Achievements

The purpose of his project was to increase the amount of cultivable land in that area. The importance of this project is emphasized by Senusret II's decision to move the royal necropolis from Dahshur to El-Lahun where he built his pyramid. This location would remain the political capital for the 12th and 13th Dynasties of Egypt. Senusret II was known by his prenomen Khakheperre, which means "The Ka of Re comes into being". The king also established the first known workers' quarter in the nearby town of Senusrethotep (Kahun).

Enduring Legacy & Impact

Senusret II was the son of Amenemhat II. The relationship is confirmed by the shared co-regency period, as Amenemhat II appointed Senusret II as his co-ruler in the 33rd year of his reign to ensure a stable transition of power. Following a patrilineal succession, no...

Contemporary Figures & Related Historical Timelines

• Senusret I — Contemporary (Born in -2000) (-2000): Powerful Pharaoh of the 12th Dynasty, known for expanding Egypt's borders.
• Ur-Nammu — Contemporary (Born in -2000) (-2000): Founder of the Sumerian Third Dynasty of Ur and author of the Code of Ur-Nammu.
• Vasishtha — Contemporary (Born in -2000) (-2000): One of the most revered Vedic sages and the founder of Vedanta philosophy.
• Amenemhat III — Contemporary (Born in -1900) (-1900): Sixth Pharaoh of the Twelfth Dynasty, overseeing Egypt's cultural and economic zenith.
• Sobekneferu — Contemporary (Born in -1900) (-1900): First confirmed female pharaoh of ancient Egypt, ruling during the Twelfth Dynasty.
• Claude Bernard — Historical peer (Died in 1878) (1878): Pioneering French physiologist who originated the concept of 'milieu intérieur'.
• Ernest J. King — Historical peer (Born in 1878) (1878): Fleet Admiral in the U.S. Navy, commanding global strategy during WWII.
• -2000 Historical Timeline & Archive — Explore world events and figures from -2000
• -1900 Historical Timeline & Archive — Explore world events and figures from -1900