The early Egyptians settled into villages, which developed into cities and later the City-States were formed. They were ruled by Kings. This is known as the pre-dynastic **. These Kings were engaged in inter City – State quarrels. Stronger City-States showed their supremacy and started taking over other weaker City-States. This made way to the birth of Kingdoms. Different dynasties ruled these Kingdoms. About 30 dynasties have ruled Egypt for more than 3000 years. No dynasty survived for more than 6-7 generations.
The Egyptian Kings were called ‘Pharaohs’. They were considered as representatives of *** on earth, hence enjoyed unlimited power. The Pharaoh ‘Menes’, united south and north Egypt in around 3000 B.C.E and made Memphis as his capital. The strong central government with absolute monarchy, a well-controlled administration and strict implementation of laws were the basic features of Egyptian polity.
The rule of dynasties can be divided into 3 phases.
The ** of Old Kingdom.
The ** of Middle Kingdom.
The ** of New Kingdom.
The **** of Old Kingdom: It is also known as the **** of Pyramids. The Pharaohs of this ** were very strong. There was a council of elders to advise the King, whose advice was not binding on the King. Pharaohs appointed Vizir, the Prime Minister who headed the Administration, Justice, and Treasury. The Local officers maintained the records and the accounts.
The **** of Middle Kingdom: It is also known as the **** of Feudal Lords. During this **, Lords became more powerful than the Pharaohs. It led to many internal wars and anarchy. The authority of Pharaohs was restored by Amen Hotep I.
The **** of New Kingdom:** During the new Kingdom, the Kings raised a powerful army and built a very strong Empire. Thutmose I conquered new territories and expanded the Empire. His daughter, Hatshepsut succeeded him. She was the first Empress in the history of the world. She ruled for twenty-one years.
