Ancient Egypt Research Paper

Historians most commonly divide Ancient Egypt into three main eras, each recognized by its ruling families, and ostensibly separated according to their level of introversion. The Old Kingdom (2695-2160 B.C.), is well known for its innovations, like the great pyramids. The Middle Kingdom (2025-1786 B.C.), the most introspective of the three, is known for its literature, and the New Kingdom (1550-1075 B.C.), for its growth and international relationships (Noble 18). The expansion and growing relationships with other regions during the era of the New Kingdom results in a certain instability and complexity in Egypt. Immigrants from Canaan, the Hyksos, create conflict in Egypt, temporarily securing power over Egyptians for as long as two-hundred

These advanced military technologies allow rulers like Hatshepsut to secure their reign. Furthermore expansion through military power creates rivalries with other empires, like the Hittites. Although this power produces conflict, it also results in periods of peace with equally powerful empires, who benefit from a relationship with Egypt. Eventually there is a breakdown in this international system due to the collapse of states. Evidence suggests a combination of invasions from the eastern Mediterranean, famine, and climate change contributes to this collapse in Egypt (Noble 21-23). Another defining element for the New Kingdom is religious turmoil. The reformation that takes place in Egypt can be likened to the protestant reformation, in that it is highly politically motivated. Just as the Catholic church was thought too powerful, so are the temple priests who worship the god Amun-Re. Amenhotep IV forbids the worship of Amun-Re, and names a new god Aten. He renames himself Akhnaten, creates a new capital city, and marries Nefertiti, who is thought to play a large role in what is known as the Armana reform. However after Akhnaten’s death