Amenhotep II (Egypt)

Amenhotep II was the son and successor of Thutmose III. He inherited a powerful Egyptian empire with influence over Canaan. In many early-date Exodus theories, Amenhotep II is considered one of the strongest candidates for the Pharaoh of the Exodus, especially if the Exodus is dated around −1446 or slightly later depending on the Egyptian chronology used.

Theory connection to Exodus: The early-date theory usually argues that Thutmose III was the pharaoh of the oppression and Amenhotep II was the pharaoh confronted by Moses. This is based mainly on biblical chronology from 1 Kings 6:1, which places the Exodus 480 years before Solomon’s Temple. Some supporters also point to questions around royal succession, Egyptian military activity, and changes after Amenhotep II’s reign, but this remains a theory rather than a direct Egyptian record of the Exodus.