Ancient Egypt

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Geography of Egypt

Surrounded by deserts on either side. Very little rainfall.

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The Nile River Valley

Waters of Nile come from the meeting of the White Nile and the Blue Nile. Depended on the flooding of the Nile to produce fertile soil for agriculture.

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Nile DeltaWhere the Nile River empties into the Mediterranean Sea.

largest area of fertile land in Egypt.

As a result, much of Egypt’s history is found here.

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Deserts

Nile Valley is sandwiched between the Western Desert and the Eastern Desert.

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DesertsThe deserts created protection from invasion. Insulated Egyptians from outside influences. Sources of minerals and building supplies - copper, gold, tin, limestone and natron - the drying agent used in mummification process.

The Mediterranean SeaEgypt’s major outlet for trade. Allowed Egypt to obtain a wide variety of goods.

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Egypt’s Ancient History

Divided into three kingdoms:Old - 2686 - 2150 BCEMiddle - 2050 - 1700 BCENew - 1550 - 1070

Prior to 3100 BCEEgypt was divided into Upper Egypt (southern) and Lower Egypt (northern). Collection of unorganized societies. White crown represented Upper Egypt.Red crown represented Lower Egypt.

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King Menes

United Upper and Lower Egypt in 3100 BCE. Red and white crown symbolizes their unity.

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Old Kingdom: 2686-2150 BCE

Acquired tremendous wealth in material goods and new ideas through trade in Mediterranean. Mined copper in the Sinai Peninsula. Timber from Syria.Wine and oil from Crete. Potter’s wheel from Mesopotamia.

ImhotepFirst individual (non-ruler) whose life has been recorded and passed on through history. Called an Egyptian Genius. Founded Egyptian system of medicine. Designed and supervised the building of the first stone building and first pyramid.