In today’s History newsletter: A brief history of Memorial Day, the hidden lives of ancient Greek women, and finding the lost city of Troy.

But first: The downfall of one of Egypt’s most spectacular dynasties. 

DEA/SCALA, FLORENCE

Pharaoh Ramses II left behind a monumental legacy of achievement: Every battle a triumph, every building spectacular, every statue incredible. He also managed to produce an extraordinary number of children—as many as 100. So why did his dynasty collapse?

More stories:
— Nefertiti was more than just a pretty face
— How a single battle—and one young pharaoh—turned Egypt into a superpower

 PHOTOGRAPH BY GREG DALE, NAT GEO IMAGE COLLECTION

PHOTOGRAPH BY DEA/ALBUM

Stories about the legendary city of Troy tell of bloody battles, fantastic adventures, heroic deeds, and tragic consequences—but was it even real? To find out, in the late 19th century, a German archaeologist went to Turkey on a quest: To find the lost city of Troy.

ONE LAST THING: Meet the ruthless king who unified the Kingdom of Hawai'i.

Thanks for reading today’s newsletter, edited and curated by Jennifer Baik and produced by Alisher Egamov. Catch our latest Photo of the Week every Sunday—and sign up here to get our future adventures in your inbox.