Egypt: Land Of The Pharaohs

Ptolemaic Dynasty, queen of Egypt, Cleopatra's death, Cleopatra Personal Life

Introduction

This article will briefly cover the timeline of Egypt. The article will cover Ancient Egypt, the Pyramid of Giza, Roman and Islamic Egypt, Modern Egypt, and Egyptian coins.

Ancient Egypt

Ancient Egypt started around 3100 BCE and is split up into three different periods of time, first starting with The Old Kingdom (2700 – 2200 BCE), Then The Middle Kingdom (2050 – 1782 BCE), and finally, The New Kingdom (1570 – 1069 BCE). As far as early civilizations go, it is one of the most important civilizations for studying the history of our ancient ancestors.

Many of the Ancient Egyptians’ skills were greater than other parts of the ancient world. Many other civilizations did not reach the equivalent of ancient Egyptian techniques, quality, and durability until much later.

The pyramid of Giza is just one example of the amazing accomplishments of these ancient skilled workers.

Advertisements

Pyramid of Giza

The Pyramid of Giza is one of Egypt’s most iconic sights. Not only is it Egypt’s largest pyramid it was also the world’s largest man-made building for over 3000 years. The pyramid itself is thought to be about 4600 years old based on various pieces of evidence available.

It was initially covered in highly polished limestone on the outside, making it bright white with gold covering the very tip of the pyramid. On the inside of The Pyramid of Giza, there are three chambers that are thought to be used as burial chambers.

Eventually, the Romans showed up on the shores of Egypt, changing the direction of Egypt’s history forever. The time period of Ancient Egypt was over and instead was about to enter a new age.

The Pyramids, Giza, Cairo, Egypt.
The Pyramids, Giza, Cairo, Egypt.
Advertisements

Roman Egypt

Following the bloody aftermath of the assassination of Julius Cesar. Mark Anthony and Octavian fought a bloody civil war. Cleopatra decided to side with Mark Anthony, which was a fatal mistake for Egypt. After a decisive loss at the Battle of Actium, Mark Anthony and Cleopatra retreated to Alexandria, where they both committed suicide (separately). Octavian would go on to annex Egypt into the Roman Empire ending Egypt as an independent power.

Egypt would go on to play a very important role in Rome’s grain and bread supply. This vital role would see Rome control Egypt for almost 600 years, all the way until 640 CE.

The Rashidun Caliphate would conquer the area while conquering other parts of the Middle East in an effort to expand the Islamic Empire.

Advertisements

Islamic Egypt

After a fast and aggressive expansion, the Rashidun Caliphate controlled key areas of the Middle East, including Egypt. However, this would create issues for the Rashidun Caliphate just as most occupying forces of a country/area have. The area, however, would go on to benefit significantly by being a part of the Islamic Golden Age.

While Egypt was conquered by Islamic soldiers quickly and efficiently, it would take longer for Islam to spread, and spread it did. Today, in modern Egypt, around 90% of its citizens identify as Muslim.

Advertisements

Modern Egypt

People have been traveling to Egypt in order to view the ancient constructions for as long as they have been around. This tradition continues up to this very day. While doing so, travelers like to take in the city of Cairo and the various tours and sights offered throughout modern Egypt.

Many Historians agree that the age of modern Egypt began in 1805 CE. The Ottoman Empire ruled the area then, and the British took over during the early 20th century. Egypt would eventually call itself independent in 1922 CE, but it would take until 1956 CE for all the British soldiers to be removed.

As a modern country, it is once again independent and trying to make its mark on the modern world. Its economy has suffered setbacks throughout the 20th and early 21st century, but it remains independent and constantly works on improving its economic situation.

Aerial Landscape view of Pyramid of Khufu, Giza pyramids landscape. Modern Cairo seen in background.
Advertisements

Egyptian Coins

Many people and historians have fallen in love with Egyptian history. It is a long and rich history filled with human emotion and the idea that we are capable of so much as a species. Egypt has minted many beautiful coins over the centuries and various rulers. Below is a link to all of the Egyptian silver coins we currently have in stock.

Egyptian 20 Piastre from 1916.
Advertisements

Published by Invest in History Co.

We specialize in high-quality gold and silver coins. Focusing on Middle East, Eastern European, and Ancient coins. We carry Roman, Greek, Parthian, Phoenician, Celtic, Byzantine, Russian, Jewish, Islamic, and many other culture's coins.

One thought on “Egypt: Land Of The Pharaohs

Comments are closed.

%d bloggers like this: