Smendes ruled part of Egypt at the same time as Herihor, a high priest of Amun in Thebes, and Ramesses XI. It is possible that Smendes was responsible for keeping Ramesses XI in seclusion during the latter part of his reign. Smendes had no connection to the royal family, and hence no true claim to the throne. He was a military leader under the previous pharaoh who retained power in the upheaval at the end of the 20th dynasty. He was vizier for at least part of the reign of Ramesses XI.

He may have become son-in-law to the pharaoh by marrying Tentamen, which might give him some claim to the throne. He ruled for about 26 years, until the role of pharaoh was seriously challenged by the high priests of Thebes. THere is much evidence to suggest that the two leaders -- Herihor and Smendes -- split up rule of the country by agreement. Their families continues to be linked until the country was effectively reunited by Sheshonq I, founder of the 22nd Dynasty

pharaohs

Smendes
Amenemnisu
Pinodjem I
Amenemope
Osorkon I
Siamun
Pinodjem II

monuments