Meshwesh

Libyan tribe from the dynasty

The Mešweš were seen as a threat and first appeared during the reign of Ramses II. Ramses II finally fought against the Mešweš and the allied Libyan tribes in the 5th year of his reign, with the Sea Peoples also allying themselves with Ramses II.

Fights under rulers

The power struggles flared up again under the new rule of Ramses III, and there were alliances with Libyan tribes. Among the Mešweš there were chieftains and also priests who played an important role in each tribe. Over time, the chieftains formed a principality in which local temples were built for the high priests. This happened many centuries before Christ, when the first Libyan king of Egypt had taken power. Even under the prince Meri, the Mešweš continued their battles.