what form of government was ancient egypt?
Ancient Egypt was a theocracy.
http://library.thinkquest.org/3011/egypt3.htm
was it a monarchy , too?
Yes. The pharaohs were kings. We might call it a theocratic monarchy. However the above site plus another I read called it theocracy.
Ancient Egypt had a unique form of government known as a theocratic monarchy. To understand this, let me explain further.
Ancient Egypt was ruled by a pharaoh who held absolute power over the kingdom. The pharaoh was not only a political leader but also considered a divine figure, believed to be the representative of the gods on Earth. This aspect makes the Egyptian government theocratic, as religion played a significant role in the ruling structure.
To identify the form of government, it is helpful to understand the characteristics of a theocratic monarchy:
1. Monarchy: The pharaoh held supreme authority and had the final say in all matters of the state. They were generally believed to be direct descendants of the gods, which legitimized their rule.
2. Theocracy: The religious beliefs and practices were deeply integrated into the governing system. Pharaohs were seen as divine beings, and their decisions were considered sacred and unquestionable. They oversaw religious ceremonies, temples, and had the responsibility of ensuring the well-being and prosperity of the kingdom.
3. Bureaucracy: The pharaoh had a support structure in the form of high-ranking officials, priests, and administrators who assisted in the day-to-day governance of the kingdom. They helped enforce the pharaoh's policies, managed the economy, and oversaw various aspects of society.
It is important to note that over the long history of ancient Egypt, the form of government did undergo changes. For instance, during certain periods, such as the New Kingdom, there was a greater division of power and the role of the pharaoh lessened to some extent.
In summary, ancient Egypt was a theocratic monarchy, where the pharaoh served as both the political leader and the religious figurehead.