Who was the first female pharaoh of ancient Egypt?

Hatshepsut is recognized as the first female pharaoh of ancient Egypt and is notable for her unique reign during the 18th Dynasty. Unlike other female figures in Egyptian history, Hatshepsut took on the full powers of a pharaoh, dressed in traditional male regalia, and even adopted a false beard to align herself with the kingship of the time. Her reign marked a period of significant prosperity, characterized by impressive building projects, including her famous mortuary temple at Deir el-Bahari, and successful trade expeditions.

This distinction is vital; Hatshepsut effectively ruled as pharaoh for about 22 years, often considered one of Egypt's most successful monarchs. Her leadership challenged the typical gender norms of her society at the time and established her as a powerful figure in a predominantly male-dominated sphere. In contrast, Cleopatra, Nefertiti, and Ramesses II, while notable historical figures, did not hold the same title or authority as pharaoh in the same way that Hatshepsut did, making her the first recognized female ruler of ancient Egypt.