Timeline of Ancient Egyptian Civilization

The civilization of Ancient Egypt endured as one of the world's oldest and most enduring cultures. Situated in the northeastern part of Africa along the Nile River, it thrived for more than three millennia. Historians typically employ two methods to delineate the history of ancient Egypt:

Dynasties: The first method entails categorizing the rule of Egypt by its various dynasties. These dynasties represent the lineages that held power and passed down the position of Pharaoh within their family. Taking into account the Ptolemaic Dynasty established by the Greeks, there were more than 30 dynasties that governed ancient Egypt. While this number may seem substantial, it spanned an impressive 3000-year timeframe.
Kingdoms and Periods: Additionally, historians divide ancient Egypt's history into three principal kingdoms, with intervening "intermediate" periods. These kingdoms are the Old, Middle, and New Kingdoms.

Here is a concise overview of the ancient Egyptian civilization's timeline, highlighting the kingdoms, periods, and dynasties:

Predynastic Period

(c. 6000-3150 BCE):

The Predynastic Period of Ancient Egypt refers to the time before the country was unified under a single ruler. It is characterized by the development of early agricultural communities along the Nile River and the gradual emergence of complex social structures. The dates and events of this period are not as well-defined as those of later periods, but here are some important dates and developments:

Nilotic scene of hippos, crocodiles and plants, ca. 3700 - 3450 B.C., Metropolitan Museum of Art (MET), New York

c. 6000 BCE: The earliest evidence of settled agricultural communities in the Nile Valley.
c. 5500 BCE: Permanent settlements and farming villages become more established.
c. 4000 BCE: Pottery production becomes more widespread.
c. 3500 BCE: The practice of mummification begins in a rudimentary form.
c. 3400 BCE: Trade networks develop, and goods such as precious stones, copper, and luxury items are exchanged.
c. 3200 BCE: The Narmer Palette, a ceremonial object depicting the unification of Upper and Lower Egypt, suggests the emergence of a centralized political authority.
c. 3150 BCE: King Narmer (also known as Menes) is traditionally considered the first pharaoh of Ancient Egypt, marking the end of the Predynastic Period and the beginning of the Early Dynastic Period.

Narmer Palette Late Predynastic – Early Dynastic, about 3000 BC, Egyptain Museum, Cairo

Step Pyramid of Djoser

Old Kingdom

(c. 2686-21181 BCE):

The Old Kingdom of Ancient Egypt is a period known for its political stability, centralized administration, and the construction of monumental architecture, particularly the pyramids. It is generally considered the first peak of ancient Egyptian civilization. Here are the dates and some key developments of the Old Kingdom:

2686 BCE: Pharaoh Djoser begins his reign, initiating the Third Dynasty and ushering in the Old Kingdom.
c. 2667 BCE: Construction of the Step Pyramid of Djoser at Saqqara begins, under the supervision of the architect Imhotep.
c. 2613-2589 BCE: Reign of Pharaoh Sneferu of the Fourth Dynasty. He builds several pyramids, including the Bent Pyramid and the Red Pyramid at Dahshur.
c. 2589-2566 BCE: Pharaoh Khufu (Cheops) constructs the Great Pyramid of Giza, the largest pyramid in Egypt.

Great Pyramid of Giza, Giza, Egypt

c. 2520-2494 BCE: Reign of Pharaoh Khafre, who constructs the second-largest pyramid at Giza and the Sphinx.
c. 2490-2472 BCE: Pharaoh Menkaure builds the smallest of the three pyramids at Giza.
c. 2300-2181 BCE: Period of decline and instability within the Old Kingdom, known as the Sixth Dynasty, leading to the end of the Old Kingdom.
2181 BCE: The Old Kingdom comes to an end, marking the beginning of the First Intermediate Period.

The Old Kingdom nears its end as the 7th and 8th dynasties are weak and the government begins to collapse. The end of the Old Kingdom is a time of poverty and famine.

First Intermediate Period

(c. 2181-2055 BCE):

The First Intermediate Period of Ancient Egypt refers to a tumultuous period of political fragmentation and social upheaval that followed the end of the Old Kingdom. It was a time marked by weakened central authority, regional power struggles, and economic challenges. While the chronology of this period is complex and not fully understood, here are some important dates and developments

2181 BCE: The Old Kingdom comes to an end, often attributed to the collapse of central authority and the weakening of the monarchy.

Funerary stele of Intef II, Metropolitan Museum of Art (MET), New York

2181-2055 BCE: The First Intermediate Period begins, characterized by political disunity and the emergence of competing regional rulers.
2160 BCE: The Herakleopolis Dynasty, based in Herakleopolis Magna, rises to prominence and attempts to assert control over Egypt.
2134 BCE: The Theban Dynasty, centered in Thebes, challenges the Herakleopolis Dynasty and establishes its authority in Upper Egypt.
2060 BCE: The Theban Dynasty, led by Mentuhotep II, reunifies Egypt, marking the beginning of the Middle Kingdom and the end of the First Intermediate Period.

During the First Intermediate Period, the traditional centralized government collapsed, leading to the rise of local rulers and a decline in economic prosperity. The period was marked by increased regionalism, with different areas of Egypt asserting their independence and often engaging in conflicts with one another. It is considered a time of transition between the Old Kingdom and the subsequent Middle Kingdom, as new power structures and regional dynamics began to emerge.

Click here to learn even more!

ca. 1919–1885 B.C, Metropolitan Museum of Art (MET), New York

Middle Kingdom

(c. 2050-1650 BCE):

The Middle Kingdom of Ancient Egypt was a period of political stability, cultural development, and territorial expansion. It followed the First Intermediate Period and preceded the Second Intermediate Period. The Pharaoh Mentuhotep II reunites the two parts of Egypt under one rule signaling the start of the Middle Kingdom. The royal tombs are moved to the north near the city of Memphis. The Egyptians start to use irrigation to carry water from the Nile to their crops.

2055 BCE: Pharaoh Mentuhotep II reunifies Egypt, marking the start of the Middle Kingdom and the end of the First Intermediate Period.
c. 2000-1786 BCE: Reign of Pharaohs Senusret I and Amenemhat II, known for their building projects and reforms.
c. 1938-1759 BCE: Reign of Pharaoh Senusret III, considered one of the most powerful and influential pharaohs of the Middle Kingdom.
c. 1878-1843 BCE: Reign of Pharaoh Amenemhat III, a period of stability and prosperity known for extensive construction projects and trade expeditions.
c. 1782-1778 BCE: Pharaoh Amenemhat IV assumes the throne but has a short reign.
c. 1700 BCE: Beginning of the decline of the Middle Kingdom as the central authority weakens, leading to increased regional autonomy.
1650 BCE: The Middle Kingdom comes to an end, marking the start of the Second Intermediate Period.

Click here to learn even more!

Second Intermediate Period

(c. 2050-1650 BCE):

The Second Intermediate Period of Ancient Egypt was a time of political instability and foreign domination. It followed the Middle Kingdom and preceded the New Kingdom.

The Second Intermediate Period was characterized by a divided Egypt, with the Hyksos ruling over the northern part and the Thebans gradually reclaiming power in the south. The period came to an end with the expulsion of the Hyksos and the reunification of Egypt under the New Kingdom.

Red granite seated statue of Sobekemsaf I, British Museum, London

1650 BCE: The Second Intermediate Period begins as the Hyksos, a foreign group, establish their dominance over Lower Egypt and parts of Upper Egypt. They establish their capital in Avaris in the Nile Delta.
1648 BCE: The Hyksos establish the Fifteenth Dynasty of Egypt, with their kings ruling over the northern part of the country.
1600 BCE: The Thebans, based in Thebes in Upper Egypt, begin to resist Hyksos rule and assert their independence.
1570 BCE: The Seventeenth Dynasty is established by the Thebans in Upper Egypt, forming a rival power to the Hyksos in the north.
1550 BCE: Ahmose I, a Theban prince, becomes pharaoh and leads a successful campaign against the Hyksos. This marks the end of the Second Intermediate Period and the beginning of the New Kingdom.

Click here to learn even more!

ca. 1479–1458 B.C, seated statue of Hatshepsut, Metropolitan Museum of Art (MET), New York

New Kingdom

(c. 2050-1650 BCE):

The New Kingdom of Egypt is often considered the peak of Ancient Egyptian civilization, characterized by powerful pharaohs, military expansion, impressive architectural achievements, and artistic excellence. It witnessed great prosperity, cultural advancements, and significant historical events.

1550 BCE: The New Kingdom begins with the reign of Pharaoh Ahmose I, who expels the Hyksos and reunites Egypt.
1479 BCE: Pharaoh Thutmose III comes to power and embarks on a series of military campaigns, expanding the Egyptian empire to its greatest extent.

1353 BCE: Pharaoh Akhenaten introduces a religious revolution, establishing the Aten (the sun disc) as the sole deity and promoting a monotheistic worship.
1332 BCE: Pharaoh Tutankhamun becomes pharaoh at a young age and is known for his tomb, which is discovered largely intact in modern times, revealing valuable treasures.
1279 BCE: Pharaoh Ramesses II, also known as Ramesses the Great, ascends the throne and reigns for a long period. He undertakes extensive building projects and military campaigns, including the famous Battle of Kadesh against the Hittites
1186 BCE: Pharaoh Ramesses III takes the throne and successfully repels invasions by the Sea Peoples, maintaining stability and security in Egypt.
1069 BCE: The New Kingdom begins to decline due to political instability, economic challenges, and foreign invasions, marking the end of the era of great pharaohs.
525 BCE: Egypt falls under Persian control after the invasion by the Achaemenid Empire, bringing the New Kingdom to an end.

Click here to learn even more!

Third Intermediate Period

(c. 1069-664 BCE):

he New Kingdom comes to end when Egypt becomes divided. Third Intermediate Period begins. Egypt grows weaker and is eventually conquered by the Assyrian Empire near the end of this period.

818 BCE: The Twenty-Third Dynasty, also known as the Libyan Dynasty, takes over from the Twenty-Second Dynasty. They continue to rule from Bubastis.
747 BCE: The Nubians, known as the Twenty-Fifth Dynasty, successfully invade Egypt and establish their rule. They have their capital in Napata in Nubia.
712 BCE: The Nubian kings move their capital from Napata to Memphis, strengthening their control over Egypt.
671 BCE: The Assyrians, under the leadership of King Esarhaddon, invade Egypt and successfully conquer the country. Egypt becomes a part of the Assyrian Empire.

Map of the third intermediate period

656 BCE: Psamtik I, a local ruler, gains independence from the Assyrians and establishes the Twenty-Sixth Dynasty. He becomes the first pharaoh of this dynasty, centered in Sais.
525 BCE: The Persians, led by Cambyses II, invade Egypt and conquer the country. Egypt becomes a part of the Achaemenid Empire.

Click here to learn even more!

ca. 664–525 B.C. Barque Sphinx, Metropolitan Museum of Art (MET), New York

Late Period

(c. 664-332 BCE):

The Late Period of Ancient Egypt refers to the last phase of native Egyptian rule before the country fell under foreign domination. It spanned from approximately 664 BCE to 332 BCE.

The Late Period marked the transition from native Egyptian rule to foreign dominations, starting with the Persian Empire and later the Greek Ptolemaic dynasty. Despite these external influences, Egyptian culture and traditions continued to shape the identity of the country. The Late Period laid the foundation for the unique and dynamic cultural mix that characterized subsequent periods in Egyptian history.

664 BCE: The Late Period begins with the invasion of Egypt by the Achaemenid Persian Empire, led by Cambyses II.
525 BCE: Cambyses II is succeeded by Darius I, who consolidates Persian control over Egypt.
404 BCE: Egypt briefly gains independence from Persian rule following a revolt led by Amyrtaeus, establishing the Twenty-Eighth Dynasty.
399 BCE: The Persian Empire regains control over Egypt, ending the brief period of independence.
343 BCE: Egypt again rebels against Persian rule, led by Pharaoh Nectanebo I of the Thirtieth Dynasty.
332 BCE: Alexander the Great of Macedonia invades Egypt, bringing an end to the Late Period.
331 BCE: Alexander the Great is proclaimed Pharaoh of Egypt and founds the city of Alexandria.

Click here to learn even more!

Ptolemaic Period

(c. 664-332 BCE):

The Ptolemaic Period in Egypt was characterized by a blending of Egyptian and Greek cultures, with the ruling Ptolemaic dynasty being of Macedonian Greek origin. The period saw significant developments in arts, literature, and architecture, with Alexandria serving as a major cultural and intellectual center. Cleopatra's involvement with Rome and her subsequent downfall marked the end of the Ptolemaic rule and the beginning of Roman domination in Egypt.

Ptolemy I Soter depicted in the Hellenistic style (left) and Egyptian style (right)

305 BCE: Ptolemy I Soter, one of Alexander the Great's generals, becomes the ruler of Egypt and establishes the Ptolemaic Dynasty.
283 BCE: Ptolemy II Philadelphus ascends to the throne. He is known for his patronage of arts and culture, as well as the construction of the Great Library of Alexandria.
246 BCE: Ptolemy III Euergetes assumes the throne. His reign is marked by military campaigns and territorial expansion, including the successful invasion of the Seleucid Empire.
221 BCE: Ptolemy IV Philopator becomes pharaoh. His reign is characterized by internal strife and conflicts with neighboring powers.
203 BCE: Ptolemy V Epiphanes takes the throne at a young age. This period sees a decline in the central authority of the Ptolemaic rulers and an increase in the power of the court eunuchs.
164 BCE: Ptolemy VIII Physcon comes to power after a period of political instability. His rule is marked by internal conflicts and power struggles within the royal family.
51 BCE: Cleopatra VII, the most famous queen of the Ptolemaic Dynasty, becomes co-ruler alongside her brother, Ptolemy XIII.
48 BCE: Cleopatra's relationship with Julius Caesar begins, leading to increased Roman influence in Egypt.
30 BCE: After the defeat of Mark Antony and Cleopatra by Octavian (later known as Augustus Caesar), Egypt becomes a Roman province, bringing an end to the Ptolemaic Dynasty.

Click here to learn even more!

Please note that the timeline provided for ancient Egyptian civilization, including specific dates and events, is based on historical research and scholarly consensus. However, it's important to acknowledge that some dates and details may vary or be subject to ongoing debate among historians and Egyptologists. The ancient Egyptian civilization spanned over thousands of years, and our understanding of it continues to evolve as new archaeological discoveries and research are conducted. Therefore, while the timeline presented here provides a general overview, it is always recommended to consult multiple sources and scholarly works for a comprehensive understanding of ancient Egyptian history.

Information compiled in this site come from the following sources; British Museum, Metropolitan Museum of Art, Smithsonian Institute, Brooklyn Museum of Art, Acropolis Museum, Encyclopedia Britannica, Egypt Time Travel, Journey to Egypt, Getty Institute, Boston Museum of Fine Art

If you have edits you would like to suggest, please email Michael.Veley@ship.k12.pa.us

Page updated

Report abuse