The Children of Adam and Eve

Nebhepetre Mentuhotep II was the first pharaoh of Egypt in the 11th dynasty (All Egypt) (2134-1991 BC), first of two dynasties in the Middle Kingdom Period (last dynasty of the First Intermediate Period according to others).

Mentuhotep II was the son of Intef III and a minor queen called Iah. His own wife was the 'king's mother' Tem. Other wives were Neferu (his sister) and several secondary wives, one or More who it has been suggested were possibly Nubian, buriedin his funerary complex. His only known son was Mentuhotep III.

The king changed his name several times during his reign, perhaps reflecting important political events. His throne name was Nebhepetre, and he was the first ruler of the Middle Kingdom of Egypt. The Turin Canon credits him with a reign of 51years.

In the 14th year of his reign, an uprising occurred. This was probably connected with the conflict between Mentuhotep II based in Thebes and the rival 10th dynasty based at Herakleopolis Magna.

Mentuhotep was able to reunite ancient Egypt for the first time since the 6th dynasty. The exact date when reunification was achieved is not known, but it is assumed to have happened shortly before year 39 of his reign.

Mentuhotep II led military campaigns south into Nubia, which had gained its independence during the First Intermediate Period. There is also evidence of military actions against Canaan. The king reorganized the country and placed a vizier at thehead of the administration. The viziers of his reign were Bebi and Dagi. His treasurer was Khety who was involved in organising the sed festival for the king. Other important officials were the treasurer Meketre and the overseer of sealers Meru.His general was Intef

Mentuhotep II was buried in a large tomb he had constructed at Deir el-Bahri. He built Temples and chapels at several places in Upper Egypt. These include Denderah, Abydos, Armant and Gebelein.

Mentuhotep II was considered by his subjects to be half divine, half mortal. This tradition continued under his successors.