Ancient Egypt

Early Dynastic Period Dynasties I-III

Period:

2,950 BCE

to

2,575 BCE

The Ancient Egyptian civilization begins.The first Pharaoh of Egypt, Menes, united the Upper and Lower parts of Egypt.He put the capitol at the midpoint of the two lands in a city called Memphis.During this time the Egyptians developed a hieroglyphic writing which would be important for making records and running the government.Near the end of the Early Dynastic Period and the start of the Old Kingdom, the first pyramid was built by the Pharaoh Djoser and the famous Egyptian Architect Imhotep.

Old Kingdom Dynasties IV-VIII

Period:

2,575 BCE

to

2,150 BCE

The fourth dynasty begins and the Great pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx are built. this is often called the age of the pyramids. The fourth dynasty is a time of peace and also a time when the sun god Re became prominent in the Egyptian Religion.

First Intermediate Period Dynasties IX-XI

Period:

2,150 BCE

to

1,975 BCE

Egypt splits back into two countries. The Old Kingdom ends and the First Intermediate period begins.

Middle Kingdom Dynasties XI-XIV

Period:

1,975 BCE

to

1,640 BCE

The Pharaoh Mentuhotep II reunites the two parts of Egypt under one rule signaling the start of the Middle Kingdom. The royal tombs are moved to the north near the city of Memphis. The Egyptians start to use irrigation to carry water from the Nile to the crops.

Second Intermediate Period Dynasties XV-XVII

Period:

1,640 BCE

to

1,520 BCE

The Middle Kingdom ends and the Second Intermediate Period begins. Some of the dynasties at the end of the Middle Kingdom and during this period only last for a short time. The horse and chariot are introduced during this period.

New Kingdom Dynasties XVIII-XX

Period:

1,520 BCE

to

1,075 BCE

The New Kingdom is a time of greatest prosperity for the Ancient Egyptian civilization. During this time the Pharaohs conquer most of the lands and the Egyptian Empire reaches its peak.

Third Intermediate Period Dynasties XXI-XXIV

Period:

1,075 BCE

to

-653 BCE

The New Kingdom comes to an end when Egypt becomes divided. Third Intermediate Period begins. Egypt grows weaker and is eventually conquered by the Assyrian Empire near the end of this period.

Late Period Dynasties XXV-XXX

Period:

-653 BCE

to

-332 BCE

The Late Period begins as the Assyrians leave Egypt and the locals regain control from vassals left by the Assyrians.