Hatshepsut was one of the few female pharaohs in ancient Egyptian history. She was born around 1504 B.C. and became pharaoh after her husband, Thutmose II, died and her stepson, Thutmose III, became pharaoh. She ruled in his name for a few years before taking the throne herself and becoming his co-ruler. Hatshepsut is considered one of Egypts greatest pharaohs, bringing great wealth and artistry to her land. She sponsored one of Egypts most successful trading expeditions, bringing back gold, ebony, and incense from a place called Punt. She secured her legacy by building structures that still stand today, such as two hundred-foot-tall obelisks at the great temple complex at Karnak. Hatshepsut was also known for her successful transition from queen to pharaoh, which was due in part to her ability to recruit influential supporters. Despite her achievements, her name was intentionally erased from Egyptian monuments and sculptures, presumably by her stepson Thutmose III.