​ August 14, 2024

Module 4: Kingdoms of the Nile
Lesson 2: The Old Kingdom

Standard:7.1-Investigate the development of civilization in the Nile River Valley.

Objective: 7.1.3- Describe the unique features of ancient Egyptian culture and social class structure.

Objective: 7.1.4- Explain the power of structure of the ancient Egyptian government.

I Can Statement: "I can describe the distinctive characteristics of ancient Egyptian government, culture, and its social class structure."

​ The Old Kingdom

​Around 2700 BC, a new dynasty arose to power in Egypt. It's rule began a period in the Egyptian history known as the Old Kingdom. The old Kingdom lasted for about 500 years, from about 2700 to 2200 BC. During this time, the Egyptians continued to develop their political system. this system was based on the belief that the pharaoh, the ruler of Egypt was both king and god. The system they developed was a theocracy, a government ruled by religious authorities. Religious leaders have the power to make, approve, or enforce laws in this government. The ancient Egyptians believed that Egypt belonged to the gods. They believed that the pharaoh had come to earth in order to manage Egypt for the rest of the Gods. The pharaoh was chosen as a leader, had absolute power over all the land and people, made laws, enforced order, and protected individual rights.

​Pharaoh of the Old Kingdom

​The most famous pharaoh of the Old Kingdom was Khufu, who ruled in the 2500s BC. Even though he is famous Egyptian legend says that he was cruel, but historical records tells us that the people who worked for him were well fed. Khufu is best known for monuments, a large structure usually made of stone which is built to remind people of an event in history or of a famous person that were built to him. Egyptians believed that a well-ordered society would keep their kingdom strong.

​ Social Class Structure

​By the end of the Old Kingdom, Egypt had about two million people. As the population grew, social classes appeared. The Egyptians believed that a well-ordered society would keep their kingdom strong, social classes were developed. Egyptian society grew more complex during this time. it continued to be organized, disciplined, and highly religious.

1. the pharaoh was at the top of the class structure
2. below the pharaoh is the Upper-class, which include the nobles, people from rich and powerful families.
3. the next class is the Middle-class, which included the scribes and rich craftspeople.
4. at the bottom of the class structure is the Lower-class, which included farmers and slaves that were often used by the pharaoh as laborers.