The Kingdoms of Egypt2 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 BCGreat Sphinx/Pyramids builtSociety 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 (1229-1213 B.C.)

Invaded by foreign empires –Assyrians and Persians