The Kingdoms of Egypt 2 distinct cultures form along Nile –Lower Egypt: North – Closer to Mediterranean Sea –Upper Egypt: South United by Menes: King of Upper Egypt around 3200 B.C.
Rulers of Egypt Menes – forms a dynasty –Dynasty: right to rule that passes to children or relatives Egypt’s rulers were religious and political leaders. –Regarded as gods: worshiped
Pharaohs Means: “great house” Duties of a Pharaoh: –Hold absolute power –Led government –Head of armies –Supreme judges
Old Kingdom: 2680 – 2180 BC Great Sphinx/Pyramids built Society split into two classes: –Lower: Peasants and farmers served in army/built pyramids –Upper: Pharaoh, royal family, priests, and scribes First Intermediate Period
Middle Kingdom: 2050 – 1780 BC “Golden Age” of Egypt –stability and prosperity Hyksos: “foreigners” –Nomads from Asia –Invaded Egypt: destroyed cities Second Intermediate Period
New Kingdom: 1570 – 1080 B.C. Pharaoh’s regain power –Strong government and army Hatshepsut: first female pharaoh Amenhotep: tried to introduce monotheism –Belief in one god Aton: Sun god Unsuccessful
The Decline of Egypt Ramses II: Last strong pharaoh ( B.C.) Invaded by foreign empires –Assyrians and Persians