Head of the Great Sphinx at Giza, Egypt
Courtesy Corel Professional Photos
Summary
"Egypt is the gift of the Nile," wrote the Greek historian Herodotus. The Nile did indeed provide the Egyptians with many necessities of life and their civilization was built along its fertile shores. Egyptian and Nubian kingdoms ruled the banks of the Nile for over two thousand years.
Internet Activities
Click on Internet Activities at the left for help in completing the Take It to the Net activity on page 93 of your textbook. In this activity, you will explore ancient Egyptian artifacts.
Section 1: The Geography of the Nile
The Nile is the world's longest river. It flows north from its sources in central Africa to the Mediterranean Sea, a distance of more than 4,000 miles. Its waters are ideal for farming and trade.
Section 2: Egypt's Powerful Kings and Queens
The first dynasty of Egypt began when King Menes united Upper and Lower Egypt. This union began one of the most stable civilizations in history. The Egyptian pharaohs successfully ruled this large civilization for over 2,500 years.
Section 3: Egyptian Religion
The ancient Egyptians believed in life after death. They developed a system of mummifying bodies to preserve them for the afterlife. During their lifetimes, many pharaohs built large pyramids to house their bodies after their death.
Section 4: The Culture of the Ancient Egyptians
The ancient Egyptians were farmers as well as successful traders. Their society was divided into several social classes with men and women as equals. The Egyptians mastered an amazing amount of knowledge that led to advances in writing, astronomy, and medicine.
Section 5: The Resource-Rich Cultures of Nubia
Several civilizations rose and fell in Nubia. Powerful kingdoms were centered in the cities of Kerma, Napata, and Meroë. The Nubians developed remarkable skills in the making of pottery as well as iron weapons and tools.