Final answer:
Hatshepsut became pharaoh by ruling as a regent and then claiming the title for herself. She maintained her position by asserting her divine birth and making significant contributions to the Egyptian culture, such as military campaigns and overseeing building projects.
Step-by-step explanation:
Hatshepsut became pharaoh by initially ruling as a regent for her stepson and then claiming the title of pharaoh for herself. She maintained her position by asserting her divine birth and proclaiming herself co-regent and later pharaoh. Hatshepsut made substantial contributions to Egyptian culture through her military campaigns, overseeing building projects, and importing goods from Nubia.