In today’s History newsletter: How the Council of Nicaea changed Christianity forever. Plus, the many love affairs of Pauline Bonaparte, and what life was really like in the “Dark Ages.”

But first: How one young pharaoh turned Egypt into a superpower.  

GIUSEPPE RAVA/BRIDGEMAN/ACI

After the death of Queen Hatshepsut, the young pharaoh Thutmose III was freshly installed to the throne of Egypt. Then came rebellion. Here’s how he rose to the challenge, transformed Egypt—and became one of the greatest military leaders in history.

More stories:
— Was Nero really a monster?
— He was the world’s first emperor. Here’s how he took the world by storm.

 PHOTOGRAPH BY SIGNAL PHOTOS/ALAMY STOCK PHOTO 

CHRISTOPHE FOUIN/RMN-GRAND PALAIS

The triumphal arch originally grew out of the triumphal parade; public processions—often with temporary wooden arches—to celebrate Rome's many military victories. But during the height of Rome’s power, the emperor decided it was time to leave a more lasting legacy.

ONE LAST THING: Ancient people had remarkably clean teeth. Here’s how they did it.

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