New Kingdom of Egypt

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== New Kingdom of Egypt ==

The New Kingdom of Egypt (c. 1550–1077 BCE) is the period in ancient Egyptian history that followed the Second Intermediate Period and preceded the Third Intermediate Period. It is also known as the Egyptian Empire, as it was a time of great territorial expansion and prosperity.

History

The New Kingdom is traditionally divided into three dynasties: the Eighteenth, Nineteenth, and Twentieth Dynasties. This era is marked by the establishment of a powerful and centralized state, significant military conquests, and the flourishing of arts and culture.

Eighteenth Dynasty

The Eighteenth Dynasty (c. 1550–1292 BCE) began with the expulsion of the Hyksos by Ahmose I, who reunited Egypt and established the New Kingdom. This period saw the reigns of some of Egypt's most famous pharaohs, including Hatshepsut, Thutmose III, and Akhenaten. Hatshepsut is notable for her prosperous and peaceful reign, as well as her extensive building projects, including her mortuary temple at Deir el-Bahari.

Thutmose III, often referred to as the "Napoleon of Egypt," expanded Egypt's empire to its greatest extent, conducting numerous military campaigns in the Near East and Nubia. Akhenaten is known for his religious revolution, during which he promoted the worship of the Aten and moved the capital to Amarna.

Nineteenth Dynasty

The Nineteenth Dynasty (c. 1292–1189 BCE) is best known for the reign of Ramesses II, also known as Ramesses the Great. His reign was marked by extensive building projects, including the temples at Abu Simbel, and military campaigns, most notably the Battle of Kadesh against the Hittites. The Treaty of Kadesh, signed during his reign, is one of the earliest known peace treaties in history.

Twentieth Dynasty

The Twentieth Dynasty (c. 1189–1077 BCE) saw the decline of the New Kingdom. The reign of Ramesses III was marked by invasions from the Sea Peoples and internal strife. Despite his efforts to maintain the empire, the economic and political stability of Egypt deteriorated, leading to the eventual collapse of the New Kingdom and the onset of the Third Intermediate Period.

Culture

The New Kingdom is renowned for its cultural achievements, including advancements in art, architecture, and literature. The period saw the construction of monumental structures such as the Karnak Temple Complex, the Valley of the Kings, and the Luxor Temple. The Book of the Dead, a collection of funerary texts, became widely used during this time.

Religion

Religion played a central role in New Kingdom society. The state-sponsored worship of gods such as Amun, Ra, and Osiris was prominent. The religious reforms of Akhenaten, which focused on the worship of the Aten, were a significant departure from traditional practices but were largely reversed after his death.

Economy

The economy of the New Kingdom was based on agriculture, trade, and tribute from conquered territories. The Nile River continued to be the lifeblood of Egypt, providing fertile land for crops. Trade networks extended throughout the Near East and into Africa, bringing wealth and exotic goods to Egypt.

Related Pages

• Ancient Egypt
• Eighteenth Dynasty of Egypt
• Nineteenth Dynasty of Egypt
• Twentieth Dynasty of Egypt
• Hatshepsut
• Thutmose III
• Akhenaten
• Ramesses II
• Ramesses III
• Battle of Kadesh
• Treaty of Kadesh
• Karnak Temple Complex
• Valley of the Kings
• Luxor Temple
• Book of the Dead
• Amun
• Ra
• Osiris
• Aten
• Sea Peoples