What made it possible for foreign invaders to conquer Egypt and bring an end to the new Kingdom?
There were several factors that made it possible for foreign invaders to conquer Egypt and bring an end to the New Kingdom:
1. Internal instability: The New Kingdom saw a decline in central authority, with internal power struggles and weak pharaohs. This created a power vacuum and weakened Egypt's ability to defend itself against foreign invaders.
2. Sea Peoples: The Sea Peoples, a group of seafaring raiders from the eastern Mediterranean, invaded Egypt during the late 12th century BCE. They caused widespread destruction and weakened Egypt's defenses.
3. Support from local allies: The Sea Peoples were not the only invaders. Some foreign groups, such as the Libyans and Nubians, took advantage of Egypt's weakened state and joined forces with the invaders, further destabilizing the country.
4. Technological advancements: The invaders often had superior military technology, especially in terms of chariot warfare and archery. This gave them an advantage in battle and made it difficult for the Egyptians to defend themselves effectively.
5. Economic decline: Egypt's wealth and prosperity declined during the New Kingdom, partly due to the loss of trade routes and widespread piracy. This weakened their ability to sustain a powerful military and defend against invasions.
Overall, a combination of internal instability, external attacks, and technological and economic disadvantages contributed to the ability of foreign invaders to conquer Egypt and bring an end to the New Kingdom.