The Egyptians were extremely smart and invented many items to make their lives easier. These are only a few of the many great inventions the Egyptians came up with. On our study guide, we are going to write the invention and what it was used for.
1. First, they invented a type of paper. It wasn't real paper like today, but it sure made it easier than lugging around stone or clay tablets to write on. They used a reed plant that grew along the Nile River called papyrus. First, they cut and smashed stalks of the papyrus plant. Then, they used each strip to weave a square. Finally, they let it dry in the hot desert sun to make paper. Papyrus was also used to make sandals, rafts, and even to eat if needed. The papyrus plant grew in abundance so there was always a supply when needed. The most important thing they used papyrus was for writing or keeping records.
2. The Egyptians also learned how to keep track of time and made a calendar. They based the calendar on the yearly rising and setting of a star called Sirius. They invented a fairly accurate calendar this way of 12 months with 30 days each. This helped farmers schedule planting and harvesting to avoid the flood season.
3. Speaking of the flood season; when it wasn't raining, the Egyptians needed a way to water their crops in the dry desert conditions. They invented irrigation systems like the shadoof. The shadoof is still used in some parts of Africa today. It uses a bucket, a pole, and a counterweight for raising water. It is very helpful when farming and watering crops.
4. The Egyptians liked to keep records and scribes did a great job of writing things down. Many items were written down on papyrus paper. However, other items were also used. Obelisks were large stone statues or structures that Egyptians used to honor important people. They carved the names of the pharaohs and special dedications to the gods on these large stones. Most were built in pairs and were at least 70 feet tall. They also had hieroglyphics telling about the daily life of the people. There is one in the United States that was made by the ancient Egyptians. You can see pictures of it below - it is located in Central Park in New York City.