U of M Launches History Series With Ramesses Lecture Sept. 30
For release: September 23, 2004
For press information, contact Gabrielle Maxey

Dr. Peter J. Brand will offer a rare glimpse into the workings of two ancient superpowers as the University of Memphis launches a new lecture series Sept. 30.

"Superpower Politics in the Age of the Pharaohs: Ramesses II, Warrior and Diplomat" will be Brand's topic at 7 p.m. in the Fogelman Executive Center, Room 136. The public is invited to the free event.

Brand is an assistant professor of history and director of the Karnak Great Hypostyle Hall Project at Luxor, Egypt. The talk will highlight his research and field work in Egypt. Ramesses II (1300-1212 B.C.) was Egypt's greatest pharaoh. His war record is glorified in a large battle scene carved into the wall at the Hypostyle Hall, which Brand is recording.

A fierce warrior, Ramesses II also was a statesman and diplomat. His greatest rival was the Hittite Empire in Turkey. After nearly 20 years of conflict, the superpowers made peace. The former opponents became allies, and Ramesses II married two Hittite princesses.

A trove of letters found in Turkey offers a look into a world where diplomatic protocol was often ignored and provides a glimpse at the private Ramesses. The lecture will examine what motivated the early superpowers in the heat of battle and at the peace table, and how even after 3300 years, global politics remains much the same.

For more information about the lecture series, call 678-2515.

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