The Old Kingdom was Egypt's first united period. It lasted from 2700 to 2200 B.C. During these centuries, Egypt became prosperous under effective pharaohs. These pharaohs had a strong central government, and an efficient administration. Egyptian power grew and trade, technology, building, writing, and art also thrived. The pyramids were an impressive achievement. The Great Pyramid was a powerful symbol of The Pharaoh's status as a God.

The Pharaohs used all their wealth and power to be able to build the pyramids. These pyramids allowed the god's a passageway to the afterlife. Khufu was a brutal pharaoh who commanded great power.

The Great Pyramid was built to honor Khufu. He was a tyrannical leader (pharaoh). It was built in Giza, near Cairo. Khufu forced farmers, laborers, and slaves to work on this great monument. The pyramid was impressive because it was 481 feet high and 571,158 square feet. 

Pharaohs were buried (entombed) in great pyramids to ensure that they passed to the afterlife. They were mummified and placed in a sarcophagus. Internal organs were removed and placed in canopic jars and placed in the tomb. Riches, like gold and jewels, were place in the tomb for the pharaohs afterlife.