Ancient Egypt was a great time in history. The Egyptians brought forward a wealth of knowledge and expertise. This timeline will help us better understand their way of life.
Egyptian history can be broken down into dynasties. 3000-2575 B.C. was Egypt's dynasties 1 to 3. About five thousand years ago, King Narmer ruled over most of the kingdoms. The next king in line is Menes who established a capital within an area known as Memphis.
During these dynasties, plant and animal life flourished. The people hunted and raised animals. Egypt's population grows from 1.3 million to 2 million. The flood of the Nile leveled off during this time, and during the third dynasty, King Djoser established the first pyramid in Saqqarah.
During the periods of 2575 to 2134 B.C., dynasties 4 to 8, the great pyramids at Giza were built. Pharaohs began to think about their journey into the after-life. They adopted the notion of "you can take it with you"; all material things that are of great importance and wealth are placed within the tombs. Religion played an important role. The sun god, Ra was worshiped and pyramids were built to reflect continued dedication to their god. Additionally, climate changed and excessive hunting, decreased in the wildlife of animals, such as elephants, rhinos, and camels. King Pepi II was the longest ruler (94 years) and after his reign, Egypt stood witness to famine. The population slowly decreased.
A dynasty 9 to 11, 2134 to 2040 B.C., sees through the breaking up of lands in two kingdoms. The climate was hot and rainfall was minimal. People began to document, or record, the affect weather is having on crops, drinkable water, and the lands. Anarchy becomes a way of life for society; people rob from storage facilities, homes, and cemeteries.
The dynasties of 11 to 14 are known as "a period of great prosperity". Theban pharaohs took over and erected more pyramids and temples. The Nile River started to flood up lands and once again affected the growth of crops. Political life was not stable and population during 2040 to 1640 B.C fluctuated.
Dynasties 14 to 17 (1640 to 1532 B.C.) are a period defined by political power. Foreign kings come to rule Egypt. During this time, they bring about such things as fruits and vegetables, horses and chariots, and weapons.
During the dynasties of 18 to 20 (1532 to 1070 B.C.) Egypt continues to prosper. Kings rule over Euphrates and through most of Nubia. Tuthmosis III brings back plant and animal life to the country. Prince Tuthmosis IV polishes the 1,000-year-old sand covered sphinx, in the hopes that he will one day rule as king. The well established Valley of the Kings hold many pharaohs and noblemen. Such temples as Karnak and Luxor continue to prosper. The population is at Egypt's highest of 4 million.
Dynasties 21 to 25 (1070 to 712 B.C.) continued to grow with kings who ruled in such areas as Tanis and into Thebes. Palestine is no longer a part of the Two Lands. Floods continue to destroy much of Egypt and the population, again, drops. During the Nubian Dynasty, anarchy came to a close and the country is brought back together.
Dynasties 25 to 30 (712 to 332 B.C.) continue to do well. The Saite Dynasty encouraged foreign trade. For the first time, Greece is able to have a claim on Two Lands' territory. The conflict between Persia and Babylonia continue. The last king to rule during this dynasty introduces art and architecture. The population grew to 5 million.
During the time period of 332 B.C. to 395 A.D., Egypt had much influence from Greece. We began with Alexander the Great who now ruled over Persia and found the city of Alexandria. Ptolemy took over as pharaoh beginning the Ptolemaic Dynasty. The Greeks were becoming heavily dominant in Egypt at this time. They brought forth an improved agricultural and technological knowledge. Additionally, they strive in the areas of politics, legal and educational issues. Julius Caesar aids Cleopatra VII during conflicts with her brother Ptolemy XIII to rule over Egypt. When Egypt is defeated by Rome, Cleopatra VII commits suicide. Rome took on full control of the country and the population grew a little over 5 million people.
(Information and picture obtained from DiscoveryChannel.com)