Ancient Egypt History

The Predynastic Period

During the Predynastic period, which covered the years 5464 BCE to 3414 BCE, the civilization started the advancement from a primitive society of hunters and gatherers to a society which was based on farming and agriculture instead.

The common living arrangements during this period of ancient Egypt history were villages, and advancements in many areas of life were started in this age. Cities were first developed, writing and many other art forms began, and there was plenty of food due to the change to agriculture.

The Archaic Period Of Ancient Egypt History

The archaic period of Egyptian history covered from 3414 BCE to 3100 BCE, and Egypt was unified during this time frame. This was the time in Egyptian history that set up the elite ruling class of Egypt, and the royal court was responsible for setting the standards for culture and society. Much advancement in culture and administration were made during this period.

The Old Kingdom Time Period

The Old Kingdom Period was when the pyramids were mainly constructed, including the Great Pyramids of Giza. To find out more about the ancient Egypt pyramids, click here

The Old Kingdom period was from 3100 BCE to 2181 BCE. Trading was started with other civilizations which were outside the Nile Valley. The military also become a powerful force during this era and the development of a warrior caste began. This period ended when the central government fell and chaos reigned.

The Intermediate Period I

The Intermediate Period I was a time of great chaos and upheaval. Combined with the fall of the central government, matters were made worse by widespread climate changes, famine, and hunger.

Anarchy became common during this period of ancient Egypt history, and local government units failed in their attempts to regain order for many years.

After more than two decades, order was restored by the leaders of the ninth and tenth dynasties. Yet Upper Egypt did not fall back under the rule of these kings. This period ran from 2181 BCE to 2125 BCE.

The Middle Kingdom Era During Ancient Egypt History

From the year 2125 BCE until 1650 BCE the Middle Kingdom era reigned during ancient Egypt history.

Nebhepetre Mentuhotep I was the ruler who reunited all of Egypt under one leader. Political stability was once again achieved. Trade was expanding, and resources which were not used until this point started being recovered.

Mining also increased during this era. Pyramids and other building projects were common. During this era each pharaoh was entombed in their own pyramid after death.

Even though this period was considered a peaceful era, fortresses were erected by many leaders.

Intermediate Period II

From 1650 BCE to 1550 BCE was the Intermediate Period II of ancient Egypt history.

The most notable events during this era was the Hyksos invasion.

Immigrants to ancient Egypt from Asia started to gain power, and take over villages and cities in Egypt.

Trade was started with neighbors to the East. Many new technologies and arts were introduced during this period.

Chariots, bronze working, scale armor, composite bows, improved weapons, the vertical loom, new music instruments, and other improvements are all the result of this era in ancient Egypt history.

The New Kingdom Era

The New Kingdom era of Egyptian history started when the Hyksos were defeated by the ruler Ahmose I, and exiled from ancient Egypt.

During this period the northern borders were secured and the Egyptian Empire was created through wars and expansion.

A female pharaoh, Hatshepsut, ruled during part of this time, and was known for prosperity and peace during her reign.

During the New Kingdom period of, Egypt became prosperous and their trade increased significantly.

This is also the time in Egyptian history when the religious strategy of Akanaten started.

Late Period I

The years 1069 BCE through 517 BCE were known as the Late Period I era of Egyptian history.

The palace artisans were highly valued, and all forms of art blossomed during this era. To find out more about ancient Egyptian art, click here.

The Late Period I is not as well known today as some other periods, because there are few artifacts and materials that have survived to study.

Persian Period I

This era was present from 517 BCE until 425 BCE. During this time there were a number of rulers, the most well known of them being Darius I.

This era was a time of independence for ancient Egypt. This independence stopped when the Persian Period ended.

Late Period II

The Late Period II was from 425 BCE until 342 BCE.

During this period Egypt suffered from external strife. The culture of Egyptian civilization was renewed. The Egyptian armies fought back many attacks from the Greeks and the Persians. They were able to due to excellent strategies and planning.

The Persian Period II

In the year 342 BCE, the Persian leader Artaxerxes III finally conquered ancient Egypt.

During this period a reign of terror was instituted by the Persians, and all of the temples in Egypt were looted.

The Persians also increased taxes dramatically during the Persian Period, so that the Egyptians would not be able to revolt or fight back.

This era was marked by religious persecution and ill treatment of the Egyptians.

Books considered sacred were stolen, temples and pyramids were looted and destroyed, and the people were terrorized into submission.

The Greek Dynasty During Ancient Egypt History

The Greek Dynasty period of ancient Egypt history covered from 332 BCE until 30 BCE, and this period started with the conquest of Egypt by Alexander the Great.

The ancient Egyptians were relieved of Persian rule, and Greek culture and administration methods were instituted under Alexander the Great.

Religion and military concepts were also revised according to the Greek methods at the time.

Commerce, trade, and travel were increased during this period of ancient Egypt history.

To find out more about ancient Egypt history check out some great dvds.

My first recommendation is Ancient Mysteries - Guardian of the Ages: The Great Sphinx. This is an informative documentary made by A&E about the mystery of the sphinx.

My next recommendation to learn more about this amazing civilization is, Ancient Egypt Unearthed. It's about ancient Egypt history and why the mighty civilization fell.