Notes 6

A Golden Age A period at which civilization is at the peak of it’s political, cultural, and economic power. New pharaohs began a period of peace and order called the Middle Kingdom and lasted from c.2055 B.C. -c. 1650 B.C.

Conquests Egypt conquered new territories. Gained control of Nubia to the south and expanded northeast into Syria. They required tribute from conquered territories. Added thousands of acres to the land- increase crop production. Irrigation- more water supply. Egyptian traders were able to send goods south by ship through the Red Sea.

The Hyksos During the 1600s B.C., civil war divided Egypt, ending an era of peace and prosperity. Hyksos- powerful warriors . Used chariots and fought with sturdy weapons made of bronze and iron. Overwhelmed the Egyptians and took the Egyptian soldiers and took over power of Egypt. Ruled for over Egypt for 100 years. Ahmose formed an army in 1550 B.C. and drove Hyksos out of Egypt.

Building an Empire Ahmose founded a new dynasty. Began a period known as the New Kingdom- 1550 B.C.-1070B.C. During this time Egypt prospered through trade, gained land, spread of gods, ideas, and culture.

Growth of Trade Hatshepsut was more interested in trade then war. The Egyptian traders exchanged beads, metal tools, and weapons for gold, ivory, ebony wood, and incense. Traded wheat, paper, and gold for wood and purple dye with the Phoenicians in Lebanon. Phoenician invention of the alphabet and system of writing influenced Egyptian culture.

Trade and Politics In addition to trade, New Kingdom pharaohs developed political ties between Egypt and nearby kingdoms. Egyptian dynasty was joined by a treaty with: Babylonian Empire in Mesopotamia Mittani in Syria, Hittite Empire in Anatolia To maintain close ties, pharaohs exchanged envoys.

Expanding the Empire Hatshepsut dies- Thutmose III, became pharaoh. Thutmose- strong leader, expanded Egypt's control, and captured nearly 350 cities. Egypt's empire grew wealthy and slavery became more common. Acquired gold, copper, ivory and other valuable goods from conquered peoples.

A Religious Founder Amenhotep IV- came to power in 1370 B.C. Wife- Nefertiti Started a new religion to decrease the power and wealth of the priests. Introduced the worship of Aton(sun god). Changed his name to Akhenaton. Under Akhenaton, Egypt lost most of its land in Western Asia. Egypt was weak under his rule.

Who was “King Tut”? Tutuankhamen 10 years old became pharaoh once Akhenaton died. Restored the worship of many deities. Rule ended only after nine years.

Recovery and Decline Ramses II- 1279 B.C. -1213 B.C. Conquered the region of Canaan. Hittite King and Ramses signed a peace treaty after many battles. Ramses- reigned for 66 years.

Why Did Egypt Decline? Ramses II died. Pharaohs fought costly wars. 670 B.C.- Egypt was taken over by the Assyrians from Mesopotamia.