Egypt's ancient history is characterized by numerous pharaohs, queens, and rulers who significantly shaped the civilization. Key figures include Menes (Narmer), Djoser, Sneferu, Khufu, Hatshepsut, Akhenaten, Tutankhamun, Ramses II, Queen Cleopatra VII, Nefertiti, and Alexander the Great. Pharaohs like Menes, Djoser, Sneferu, Khufu, Hatshepsut, Akhenaten, Tutankhamun, Ramses II, Queen Cleopatra VII, and Nefertiti were known for their political prowess and alliances. The Ptolemaic dynasty, founded by Ptolemy I Soter, ruled Egypt until Cleopatra's reign. The era of pyramid construction was ushered in by pharaohs like Menes, Djoser, Sneferu, Khufu, Hatshepsut, Akhenaten, Tutankhamun, Ramses II, and Nefertiti.