Late Period

Welcome to the Late Kingdom, an extraordinary period in ancient Egyptian history! Spanning from approximately 1550 BCE to 1069 BCE, the Late Kingdom, also known as the New Kingdom, was a time of remarkable achievements, military conquests, and cultural splendor. Join us on a journey as we delve into the captivating details of this fascinating era! 

The Rise of the Late Kingdom 

The Late Kingdom began with the 18th Dynasty, a time of great political change and renewal. Pharaohs like Ahmose I and Hatshepsut played crucial roles in driving out the Hyksos, a foreign group that had ruled Egypt for many years. Ahmose I's victory marked the start of the New Kingdom, which brought a renewed sense of national pride and unity. During this time, the capital city shifted from Thebes to Amarna under the reign of Akhenaten, but later returned to Thebes.

Pharaohs:

The Late Kingdom was blessed with powerful and influential pharaohs. Hatshepsut, one of the few female pharaohs in Egyptian history, brought prosperity and stability to the kingdom through extensive trade and building projects. Thutmose III, often regarded as one of Egypt's greatest military strategists, expanded the empire through numerous military campaigns, extending Egyptian control into Canaan, Syria, and Nubia. Ramses II, also known as Ramses the Great, constructed grand monuments like Abu Simbel and signed the first known peace treaty with the Hittites, marking a significant diplomatic achievement.

Military Conquests and Expansion:

One of the defining features of the Late Kingdom was its military prowess and territorial expansion. Thutmose III's military campaigns solidified Egypt's dominance in the region. Through successful battles and strategic alliances, Egypt gained wealth, resources, and tribute from its conquered territories. Ramses II continued the tradition of military conquests, engaging in legendary battles against the Hittites and successfully defending Egypt's borders.

Cultural Achievements and Splendor:

The Late Kingdom witnessed remarkable cultural achievements that continue to astound us today. The era was characterized by a flourishing of the arts, including intricate tomb paintings that depicted scenes from daily life and the afterlife. Monumental sculptures, such as the colossal statues of Ramses II, showcased the artistic skill and grandeur of ancient Egypt. Magnificent temples like Karnak and Luxor, dedicated to the gods, highlighted the religious significance and architectural splendor of the Late Kingdom.

The Decline and End of the Late Kingdom:

Despite its golden age, the Late Kingdom eventually faced challenges and declined. The religious reforms implemented by Akhenaten, such as the worship of a single god, caused social unrest and political instability. Pharaohs like Tutankhamun, a famous boy king, struggled to maintain the kingdom's stability during this period. The Late Kingdom faced external threats as well, including invasions by the Sea Peoples, which marked the beginning of the end for this magnificent era. The Late Kingdom came to an end around 1069 BCE, leading to the Third Intermediate Period.

The Late Kingdom of ancient Egypt was a remarkable era marked by military conquests, cultural achievements, and the reign of powerful pharaohs. It witnessed the rise of great leaders, the expansion of the empire, and the construction of awe-inspiring monuments. The Late Kingdom's legacy continues to captivate us today through the remarkable artifacts and rich history it left behind. It serves as a testament to the enduring strength, ingenuity, and artistic excellence of the ancient Egyptian civilization.

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