Ptolemy VIII Euergetes II was a ruler of ancient Egypt from the Ptolemaic dynasty, reigning from 170 to 163 BCE and again from 145 to 116 BCE. He was the son of Ptolemy VI Philometor and Cleopatra I, and he is known for his efforts to stabilize Egypt during a tumultuous period marked by internal strife and external threats. Euergetes II was also known for his patronage of the arts and his attempts to strengthen the economy. His reign saw the continuation of the cultural blending characteristic of the Ptolemaic period, as well as conflicts with rival claimants to the throne, including his brother, Ptolemy VI.