Tutankhamun, often referred to as the "Boy King," was an Egyptian pharaoh of the 18th Dynasty (New Kingdom), who ruled during the 14th century BCE. He ascended the throne at the young age of nine or ten and ruled for approximately ten years until his death around the age of 18 or 19.
Tutankhamun's significance in history primarily stems from the discovery of his nearly intact tomb (KV62) in the Valley of the Kings by British archaeologist Howard Carter in 1922. This extraordinary find provided invaluable insights into ancient Egyptian burial practices, art, and culture. The tomb contained a vast array of artifacts, including the iconic gold funerary mask that has become a symbol of ancient Egypt.
The young pharaoh's mummified remains were also found within the tomb, which has led to extensive study and speculation about the cause of his death. Various theories have been proposed, ranging from an infection resulting from a broken leg to genetic disorders caused by inbreeding among the royal family. More recent investigations using modern techniques like CT scans and DNA analysis suggest that a combination of factors, including a severe bout of malaria and a degenerative bone disorder, may have contributed to Tutankhamun's premature death.
Tutankhamun's reign itself was relatively uneventful. He was likely a figurehead under the influence of powerful advisors, such as the vizier Ay and the military commander Horemheb. One notable aspect of his reign was the restoration of the traditional polytheistic religion, which had been replaced by the monotheistic worship of the sun god Aten under his father, Akhenaten.
The discovery of Tutankhamun's tomb ignited a worldwide fascination with ancient Egypt and fueled further archaeological exploration. The Boy King's short life and the mystery surrounding his death continue to captivate the imagination of both scholars and the public alike.
