Ancient Egypt

Ancient Egypt Where was this? Ancient Egypt was located in modern Egypt along the Nile River. There were two places in Ancient Egypt. The Black Land The Red Land The Black land was next to the Nile, very fertile, and supplied food. The Red Land was located away from the river was dry, but also had natural resources they used.

Ancient Egypt

When did Ancient Egypt exist? 3500 BC – 600 AD http://www.ancientegypt.co.uk/time/explore/main.html

Characteristics of Ancient Egypt Religion They were polytheistic – worshipped many gods. Also, they built temples out of stone in honor of their gods. Amen (Amon) - Later Amen-ra was the father of all the gods. He is represented in art by a man or a sun. His sacred animals are a goose and a ram.

Characteristics of Ancient Egypt Mummification Then they started embalming people and wrapping them in cloth strips which would preserve their bodies. Pyramids were built to house the bodies of Pharaohs and their queens. http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/05/02/ancient-egyptians-pyramid-stones-video_n_5248092.html http://www.smithsonianmag.com/history/uncovering-secrets-of-the-sphinx-5053442/?no-ist

Book of the Dead Collection of spells, hymns, and prayers intended to secure a safe passage to the underworld for the deceased

Characteristics of Ancient Egypt Daily Life It revolved around the Nile which had yearly floods which brought fertile soil. People made their homes out of mud-bricks Most people worked as field hands, farmers, craftsmen, and scribes. The river brought harvest and wealth to them.

Characteristics of Ancient Egypt Writing They believed it was important to communicate information about religion and government. They used something called hieroglyphics – a writing system using picture symbols. Wrote on papyrus (kind of like paper) This helped preserve their culture.

Economics Egyptians were farmers along the Nile which was very fertile creating a surplus of food. Specialization of labor Bread and beer making Harvesting papyrus Sailing merchant vessels Herding animals Making goods The Nile Floodplain

Characteristics of Ancient Egypt Pharaoh The leader of Ancient Egypt was known an Pharaoh. He owned all the land and was responsible for laws, collecting taxes, and defense. He was also their spiritual leader who built temples and performed rituals to honor gods.

Social Structure PHARAOH Earthly leader; considered a god 2 Social Structure PHARAOH Earthly leader; considered a god HIGH PRIESTS AND PRIESTESSES Served gods and goddesses NOBLES Fought pharaoh’s wars MERCHANTS, SCRIBES, AND ARTISANS Made furniture, jewelry, and fabrics for pharaohs and nobles, and provided for other needs PEASANT FARMERS AND SLAVES Worked in the fields and served the pharaoh