Details About Ptolemy VII
Ptolemy VII A Ptolemaic ruler named Neos Philopator governed Egypt in the second century prior to the birth of Christ. Although his rule is largely seen as a transitional period, it was nevertheless eventful. Ptolemy VII Neos Philopator was born the second son to Ptolemy VI and Queen Cleopatra II Philomator Siderea. At the age of fifteen, he was appointed co-king with his father, and upon the death of his father in July 145, assumed the title of heir apparent.
For this reason his mother took the title of Regent until her marriage to his uncle Ptolemy VIII Evergetes II Tryphon, King of Cyrene. Ptolemy VIII, wanting to regain the throne of Egypt, had him assassinated that same year. According to some specialists, assigning a number (VII) to Ptolemy Neos Philopator in the dynasty is a mistake, as he never actually reigned (two co-regencies). This is why Ptolemy VIII Evergetes II Tryphon is often found with the number VII instead of VIII.
Even if his rule cannot be considered long or very flourishing, Ptolemy VII Neos Philopator is, nonetheless, a significant character in the analysis of the Ptolemaic dynasty as well as Egyptian history. His life shows how complicated succession and turning allies into enemies were within the dynasty itself.