The word 'Pharaoh' is a Hebrew corruption of the Egyptian word Per-a'a, meaning "Great House". Per-a'a was the most important figure in Egypt. He was the incarnation of a god on earth, sometimes the son of Horus, others the son of Amun-Ra. Per-a'a was not only the true political leader of Egypt's theocracy, he was also a priest, a warrior, a diplomat, and a god. These characteristics are what made the ancient Egyptian rulers so unique and fascinating.

The Egyptian rulers were thought to become gods after death and were treated as so while on earth. In fact, it was considered an honor just to kiss the ground near his feet. Although he claimed to have power over all things, he also had the help of thousands of workers, from the educated scribe to the humble slave. The two officials that were pharaoh's right hand men were the two governors, one for Lower Egypt, another for Upper Egypt. In some cases, there could be only one governor, but usually there were two due to the incredible work their jobs demanded. Pharaoh enlisted the help of scribes to keep inventory and make records. Slaves and peasants were used for building jobs and hard labor.

Egyptian pharaoh's didn't always have it easy. They were to keep ma'at, a happy state of order in which the kingdom functioned properly and was successful. Without ma'at, the people of Egypt were bound to revolt, and Pharaoh would be the scapegoat.

Pharaoh's family tree could often be very complex. It was not uncommon for a pharaoh to marry his sister or daughter. This was done in order to produce heirs whose inherited title and throne could not be disputed. This practice often confuses scientists and scholars alike because of the complexities involved in mapping out an incestuous family's lineage. Even though the pharaoh usually married his sister or half-sister, who generally became his principle wife, he could have a harem of several wives and concubines. Perhaps the best example of polygamy in Egypt's royal family is the infamous Ramesses II. His harem was filled with Egyptian and foreign princesses alike, nobles, etc. So great was the number of his concubines and wives that he was able to sire over 150 children during his lifetime.