ancient egypt
It is nigh impossible to discuss the ancient Egyptians on a single page - or indeed in any one
article, or book for that matter. An extremely brief introduction, however, may be achievable
here. In North Africa then, along the lower reaches of the River Nile, there arose a civilization
unlike any other, before or since. We mark its beginning, or at least its rise, with the political
unification, under Menes, of Upper and Lower Egypt.
The history of ancient Egypt can be traced through three distinctive periods, marked by stable
kingdoms interrupted by times of relative instability: the Old Kingdom, the Middle Kingdom, and
the New Kingdom, spread across the entirety of the Bronze Age.
The many and varied contributions and achievements of the ancient Egyptians are difficult to
grasp entirely. The lasting legacy of their culture and civilization includes but is not limited to
influences and contributions towards writing, art, architecture, mathematics, agriculture and
irrigation, medicine, navigation, literature, and politics. They made military and technological
advancements, pioneered quarrying and surveying, and their construction techniques are a
marvel even unto this day.
The structures built in ancient Egypt, including monumental temples, obelisks, and especially the
pyramids have baffled architects and engineers throughout history due to their ingenuity, and
sheer size and planning. Their religion and culture have also had a widespread influence across
the world, and Egyptian mythology continues to be an integral part of literature, art, and popular
culture today.
Stay tuned to Dastaan World Magazine for an in-depth article on the ancient Egyptian civilization,
their culture and religion, the mythology, and the many marvels they contributed to the world.
Read more about ancient civilizations, including the Indus Valley, Yangtze, and Yellow River civilizations
in our next issue.