Ramses V

From open-encyclopedia.com - the free encyclopedia.

Ramses V (reigned 1150 - 1145 BC) was the fourth ruler of the Twentieth dynasty of Egypt.

He was probably the son of Ramses IV. His reign was characterized by the continued growth of the power of the priesthood of Amon, which controlled much of the temple land in the country and was in control of the financial system through the high priest's son.

The papyrus Turin 1887 records a financial scandal during his reign that involved the priests of Elephantine.

The circumstances of his death are unknown. It is possible he was dethroned by his successor, Ramses VI. His mummy has been recovered and seems to indicate that he died of smallpox, but there is a major head wound evident as well.