Sneferu (Snofru)

Sneferu was born as the son of Pharaoh Huni and a minor wife named Meresankh I. Despite not being the primary heir, his exceptional abilities and perhaps a strategic marriage would eventually place him on the throne of Egypt.

Sneferu married Hetepheres, who was likely of royal blood and possibly Huni's daughter. This marriage strengthened his claim to the throne and would produce the future pharaoh Khufu, builder of the Great Pyramid.

Following Pharaoh Huni's death, Sneferu became the first pharaoh of the Fourth Dynasty. He inherited a unified and prosperous Egypt, beginning one of the most ambitious building programs in ancient history.

Led a successful military expedition into Nubia, capturing thousands of prisoners and large herds of cattle. The Palermo Stone records bringing back 7,000 prisoners and 200,000 head of livestock, securing Egypt's southern borders and resources.

Conducted a major military expedition against the Libyans to the west. The campaign captured 11,000 prisoners and 13,100 head of cattle, demonstrating Egypt's military dominance over its neighbors.

Began construction of the Meidum Pyramid, initially as a step pyramid. This project would undergo multiple design changes and represents the transition from step pyramids to true pyramids, pioneering new architectural techniques.

Initiated construction of the Bent Pyramid at Dahshur, an ambitious attempt at a true pyramid. The unique bent angle resulted from construction adjustments made when structural problems appeared midway through building.

Implemented significant administrative reforms, strengthening central government control and establishing efficient systems to manage the massive labor force required for his building projects. These reforms laid the foundation for the Old Kingdom bureaucracy.

Organized a massive naval expedition of 40 ships to Byblos to obtain precious cedar wood. This expedition established crucial trade routes and secured materials needed for his ambitious construction projects and shipbuilding.

Sneferu was remembered in Egyptian tradition as a kind and benevolent ruler. Later texts describe him as a model king who treated his subjects well, earning the epithet 'the Beneficent King' in Egyptian memory.

Sneferu died after approximately 24 years of rule, leaving behind more pyramid stone than any other pharaoh. He was buried in the Red Pyramid, and his son Khufu succeeded him, continuing the pyramid-building tradition with the Great Pyramid of Giza.

Completed the Bent Pyramid despite its structural challenges. Rising to 105 meters, it remains the best-preserved pyramid exterior in Egypt, still retaining much of its original limestone casing.

Started construction of the Red Pyramid, applying lessons learned from the Bent Pyramid. Named for the reddish hue of its limestone blocks, it would become Egypt's first successful true pyramid with a constant 43-degree angle.

Queen Hetepheres gave birth to Prince Khufu, who would succeed Sneferu and construct the Great Pyramid of Giza. The prince was raised in the royal court and trained in administration and military arts.

Successfully completed the Red Pyramid, Egypt's first true pyramid. Standing at 105 meters with a base of 220 meters, it demonstrated mastery of pyramid construction and served as Sneferu's final resting place.