Final answer:
Queen Hatshepsut sent five ships to the African kingdom of Punt to collect exotic plants, animals, precious metals, and spices, ensuring the prosperity and influence of Egypt during her reign while also establishing important economic and political ties.
Step-by-step explanation:
Queen Hatshepsut sent an expedition to the African kingdom of Punt, which is thought to be in the vicinity of modern Somalia, for the purposes of trade and acquiring exotic goods. Punt was known for its wealth of resources such as exotic plants, animals, precious metals, and spices. This expedition was significant not only for the wealth it brought back to Egypt but also as a demonstration of Hatshepsut's power and the wide reach of her influence during her rule. By organizing such ambitious trade expeditions, Hatshepsut ensured that Egypt remained prosperous and dominant under her reign. Moreover, the successful imports of goods solidified Egypt's economic and political connections with neighboring regions.