History of Egypt

Egypt falls in North East Africa. London boasts a rich and intriguing 5000-year legacy.

Ancient Egypt

King Menes formed the first Egyptian civilization by combining Upper and Lower Egypt in 3150 BC. Politically and ethically, pharaohs controlled the territory. To demonstrate their power and rule, they erected massive pyramids as funerary monuments. Known pharaohs included Hellenistic Cleopatra VII. One is remembered as the beautiful, intelligent lover of Julius Caesar and Mark Antony. 

Greek and Roman Rules

After Alexander the Great of Macedonia subjugated Egypt, it became a Kingdom of two pharaohs, joining the Greek empire. General Succeeded Ptolemy I. after his death. Egypt was in its cultural and economic zenith under Greek control. Egypt, which governed Palestine under Cleopatra, came under the Roman Empire under Octavian, subsequently Augustus, in 30 BC. Christianity spread throughout Egypt at this period as well.

Islamic Conquest

In 641 AD, Arab armies seized and Islamized this area. The Fatimids ruled Egypt from 969 to 1171. Al-Azhar and Ibn Tulun mosques came out of this time.

Modern Egypt

Late 19th-century British forces occupied and guarded Egypt. However, it declared its independence in 1922 and was a constitutional monarchy until Gamal Abdel Nasser's 1952 takeover. Modern Egypt has had a convoluted political and economic existence. Still a major force in the Middle East, the beautiful nation attracts many visitors to see its rich past and culture.

Egyptian historical names

Egypt has produced many outstanding leaders. First female pharaoh Hatshepsut, military and architectural master Ramses II, and Tutankhamun, whose tomb suddenly turned up in Egypt in 1922. Modern Egyptians keep their historical legacy intact through cultural practices and take great pride in it.

Ancient Egypt and Prehistory 

Egyptian archaeological data points to human activity at least 40,000 years ago. Early settlements, mainly around the Nile River in central Egypt, depended on river water close to rich land. People of the Neolithic Nile Valley began cultivating barley and wheat about 6000 BCE. Built-up communities grew into towns and cities; civilisation grew complicated with social systems and structured religion.

Ptolemaic and Roman Egypt 

General Ptolemy I Soter (ruled 323–285 BCE) established the Ptolemaic dynasty and briefly supervised Egypt after the death of Alexander the Great. Following it, the Greek "Hellenistic" era started.Greek rulers, the Ptolemies, adopted Egyptian religion and language. After the Roman Empire took Egypt in 30 BCE, it became a province. Although Roman influence turned Egyptian temples into Christian churches, churches were built using traditional Egyptian gods from Egyptian temples.

The Middle Ages (7th–1517)

In 641 AD, Egypt fell under the Arab Islamic Caliphate. Islam expanded, and the Fatimids rose to be the main dynasty. During the late 12th-century dynastic strife, Egypt came under the Ayyubid Sultanate. Under Ayyubid direction, many scientific, architectural, and literary developments occurred.

Early modern: Ottoman Egypt (1517–1867) 

In 1517, the Ottomans invaded Egypt and designated a governor. But in 1805, Muhammad Ali Pasha created Egypt under some semi-independence. Egypt became a British protectorate in 1914; its successors modernised and reordered the country.

Republican Egypt under Nasser (1952–1970) 

Egypt developed as a regional force under Nasser, who led the Non-Aligned Movement. However, his socialist principles and clashes with Israel brought political and financial suffering to the nation.

Egypt under Sadat and Mubarak (1971–2011) 

Anwar Sadat carried on the Israel peace effort following Nasser's 1970 passing. But Hosni Mubarak gained control for almost thirty years after his 1981 murder. Under Mubarak, Egypt's economy developed, yet human rights abuses persisted. Mubarak fell, and with the 2011 Egyptian Revolution, a new chapter started. Socially and politically, the 2011 revolution shook Egypt. Under several transitional governments, there have been wars, corruption, demonstrations, and breaches of human rights.

Geography 

Although modern Egypt has a different geography and culture, most people discuss ancient Egypt. Located in northern Africa between two continents and three main rivers, the Mediterranean, Red, and Nile, Egypt is a diverse area that shapes its geography and culture today, with most of Egypt's 73 million residents living in the Nile Valley and Delta, industry and agriculture rule. Cairo, the capital of the Nile, boasts nine million people. 

Climate

Egypt gets hot, dry summers and pleasant winters. Whereas winter temperatures hardly dip below 50°F (10°C), summer temperatures can reach 100°F (38°C). The Nile influences national temperature and humidity. The river cools and irrigates from evaporation.

Biodiversity

Along the Nile Delta and Red Sea on the west coast, Egyptian flora and fauna abound. Among the 100 animal species of the nation are camels, gazelles, and rats. Hippos, Nile crocodiles, and other odd species live there. 

Foreign and military relations 

Egypt boasts one of the biggest and strongest militaries in the Middle East and has excellent security and defence capacity. The nation is vital geographically, most especially to world powers and neighbours. Egypt is essential in international bodies like the UN and AU since it has mediated Israel's issues with Arab states since the 1970s. Recent years have seen extremist groups afflicting Egypt's boundaries with havoc. 

Law 

Egypt's legal system blends Islamic law, civil code, and French and Ottoman customs. Political repression and violations of human rights have put the government under fire. 

Human rights 

The human rights record of Egypt is not perfect. Though political participation and freedom of expression are discouraged, the nation has advanced women's rights and education. Mubarak was accused of random detention and torture. Although activists and international groups claim problems have improved since the 2011 revolution, they still exist.

Press freedom 

Press freedom in Egypt is fragile. There are independent media sources, although authorities sometimes coerce reporters or they self-censor. Social media channels have been closed, and activists and bloggers have been arrested for their work. 

Divisions of administration 

Egypt consists of 27 governorates, and Cairo serves as their administrative centre. Governorates are composed of districts and villages. The federal government's control of governors and their territories fuels criticism of local autonomy. 

Economy 

Egypt boasts the biggest Middle Eastern economy among all the countries in Africa. Its industries span business, travel, oil and gas, and agriculture. The country has recently suffered from political unrest, economic difficulties, and security concerns. Government changes, including the devaluation of money and cuts in subsidies, have helped to stabilise the economy and draw foreign capital.

Energy 

Egypt's rising population calls for more energy. Because the nation consumes so many fossil fuels, renewable energy options have always drawn increasing interest. The government targets dramatic reductions in fossil fuels and renewable energy. Included are private renewable investment incentives and large-scale solar and wind projects. Egypt's incredible natural resources and rising dedication to sustainable development make it the leading producer of renewable energy. 

Transport 

Egyptian transport provides several choices for both locals and tourists and is well-developed. Egypt's principal international airport is Cairo; however, several state-owned airports handle local and international flights. While bus and ferry linkages are widespread, a train network connects main cities and tourist sites. 

Water and sanitation 

Millions of drinking water, agriculture, and irrigation for Egypt greatly depend on this river. Still, it lacks enough sanitation and potable water. Bad urban design and ageing infrastructure cause supply interruptions; suburban areas feature noticeably less clean water and sanitation. 

Demographics

Egypt, with around 100 million citizens, ranks third among all the Arab countries. Most reside in cities; Cairo is the biggest of them all. Arabic is Egypt's official language, and over 90% of its people are Muslims. 

Groups ethnic 

Egypt's population includes Arabs, Nubians, and Bedouins. The  Egyptian background also shapes national culture. Sometimes, Egyptian ethnic groups conflict. The rising Nile River dam has caused displaced Nubian villages to rebel and fight. 

Languages 

Though languages including Berber, Nubian, and Arabic are also somewhat common, Arabic is Egypt's official language. In metropolitan regions, foreign guests can engage readily since many, particularly those working in tourism, know English. 

Religion 

First of all, since ten million of the twenty million people living in Egypt are Muslims, religion is vital in Egyptian society and influences most of the people. Nationwide, mosques receive calls to prayer, and religious festivities are observed. About ten percent are Christians from Egypt. 

Education 

Egyptians appreciate education and follow it; hence, Egypt has a powerful public and private educational system. Commendatory education and vocational and technical training are given to 6–14-year-olds. Rural communities still lack good education, even though some have attempted it. Gender disparities in education include girls' reduced attendance in schools compared to boys.

Healthcare

Many poor rural Egyptians lack access to healthcare. The underfunded healthcare system of the country results in limited access and large wait times. The government has raised healthcare expenditures and has adopted universal health insurance to address these issues. Still, quality and access to care are problems for every person. 

Largest cities 

Over forty-three percent of Egyptians live in cities. Cairo is the biggest and most crowded city; Alexandria and Giza follow. Along with business hubs, these are tourism and cultural hotspots. Modern buildings, energetic markets, and historic pyramids have taken their place. Indeed, these cities can manage pollution and population. 

Culture 

These help to define national art, literature, architecture, and cuisine. Pharaohs, Greeks, Romans, and Ottomans defined ancient Egyptian civilization.  Modern Egypt combines old and new practices. Strong is a love for music, dance, storytelling, family, and community values.

Arts 

Egyptian art covers ancient hieroglyphics and sculptures to contemporary film, music, and literature. While modern painters probe social and political concerns, traditional artists use historical themes and symbolism.  Cairo boasts galleries, events, and shows highlighting local artists. The Ministry of Culture and the Supreme Council of Antiquities get government support in order to assist in preserving Egypt's cultural past.

Literature

Egypt has ancient literature, and its archive is large and varied. Notable writers include early Egyptian female writer Alifa Rifaat and Nobel Literature Prize recipient Naguib Mahfouz.

Media 

Egyptian media has evolved recently as digital and social media have grown. The nation boasts several state-owned and privately run publications and TV stations. Certain Egyptian reporters are suppressed or attacked for criticising the government. During political turmoil, the government has blocked online content and turned off the internet. 

Music 

The rich legacy of Egypt is a star and folk fusion music. Modern Egyptian music draws on the oud, qanun, and tabla. Middle Eastern music produced by Amr Diab and Tamer Hosny is well-known all around. Popular radio stations and street artists spread Egyptian music throughout Egypt. 

Dances 

From regional dancing, Egypt boasts a rich tradition of vivid and energetic dances. The traditional belly dance has grown over the decades and is Egypt's most sought-after entertainment.  

Museums 

For archaeologists, Egypt boasts some of the world’s most well-known and remarkably preserved ancient treasures. Ancient riches, mummies, jewellery, sculptures, etc., abound in the Egyptian Museum in Cairo and other institutions. Other prominent museums are the Aswan Nubian Museum (Nubian History and Culture) and the Alexandria National Museum (Greece and Rome). 

Festivals 

Egypt celebrates its culture through secular and religious events. Possibly most well-known is the Cairo International Festival for Experimental Theatre, which presents avant-garde events worldwide.   

Cuisine 

Egyptian cuisine echoes its varied past.   Instead, it produces original cuisine with African, Mediterranean, and Middle Eastern tastes. Popular Egyptian cuisines are Falafel, kosher, and whole medames. Egyptian street food is delicious, especially Tamiya and kushari. Meals in Egypt are social events when friends and relatives share regional food. 

Sports 

Egypt is completely obsessed with sports, particularly football. The national team has won seven African Cups. Egypt has also produced elite squash, handball, and basketball players.