Rameses II became pharaoh of Egypt in 1279 BCE. When new pharaohs came to power, neighboring civilizations would test them by sending armies to try and take Egyptian land. Although Rameses II was a poor general, he had great helpers who defended Egypt. Rameses II is remembered for ordering the construction of the huge Abu Simbel temple and for having his name chiseled on monuments across Egypt to boost confidence in his rule, even though Egypt's military strength is what really kept the country safe during his 60-year reign.