Describe the political philosophy of the Egyptian government through all three major dynastic periods.(1 point)
Responses
capitalism
absolute monarchy
feminist system
monotheism
What did most people in Egypt do for a job throughout the Old, Middle, and New Kingdoms?(1 point)
Responses
priest
merchant trader
farmer
scribe
To construct an accurate timeline that shows the major civilizations in Mesopotamia during ancient times, which key civilization is missing?(1 point)
The missing key civilization in the timeline of major civilizations in ancient Mesopotamia would be the Sumerians.
The political philosophy of the Egyptian government has undergone significant changes throughout its three major dynastic periods. These periods include the Old Kingdom, Middle Kingdom, and New Kingdom. Here's a breakdown of the political philosophies during each of these periods:
1. Old Kingdom (2686-2181 BC):
During the Old Kingdom, the Egyptian government followed a form of political philosophy known as an "absolute monarchy." The pharaoh, who was considered the divine ruler, had complete and unquestionable authority over the kingdom. The political structure was highly centralized, with the pharaoh exercising control over all aspects of governance, including the economy, law, and military.
2. Middle Kingdom (2055-1650 BC):
During the Middle Kingdom, the political philosophy shifted towards a more decentralized and participatory system. The pharaohs still held significant power, but they began to recognize the influence of regional nobles and established regional governors to assist in governing different parts of the kingdom. This period saw a more inclusive approach to governance, where the local elites had some level of administrative authority and took part in decision-making processes.
3. New Kingdom (1550-1077 BC):
The New Kingdom marked a period of revival and expansion for Egypt. The political philosophy during this time can be characterized as a combination of an absolute monarchy and a theocracy based on monotheism. The pharaohs maintained their status as absolute rulers but also adopted the belief in a single god, typically embodied by the sun god, Amun-Ra. This religious shift in politics solidified the pharaoh's divine authority and further legitimized their rule.
It is important to note that while the ancient Egyptian government exhibited elements of centralization, monarchy, and theocratic influence, concepts such as capitalism and feminist systems did not exist during this time. The socio-political structures of ancient Egypt were distinct from the modern concepts that emerged later in history.
The political philosophy of the Egyptian government varied across the three major dynastic periods of ancient Egypt.
During the Old Kingdom (2686-2181 BC), the primary form of government was an absolute monarchy. The pharaoh, considered a divine ruler, held absolute power and authority. The pharaoh's authority was justified through the concept of Ma'at, which emphasized order, justice, and harmony in society. The pharaoh acted as an intermediary between the gods and the people, responsible for ensuring the well-being and prosperity of Egypt.
In the Middle Kingdom (2055-1650 BC), while the pharaohs still held significant power, there was also the emergence of a more centralized political structure. This period saw the establishment of a bureaucracy that assisted the pharaoh in governing the vast Egyptian empire. The bureaucracy included officials who managed various aspects of administration, such as tax collection, justice, and public works.
The New Kingdom (1550-1069 BC) marked a shift towards a more militaristic and expansionist approach in Egypt. The pharaohs during this period focused on military campaigns, extensive building projects, and consolidating power. They were considered warrior-kings and pursued an aggressive foreign policy to expand Egyptian territories and enhance their prestige. The pharaohs maintained their divine status and had absolute control over the governmental affairs.
It is important to note that the concepts of capitalism, feminist systems, and monotheism, as we understand them today, did not exist during these ancient periods in Egypt. Capitalism, characterized by private ownership of resources and free-market competition, developed much later in history. Similarly, feminist systems, which advocate for gender equality, emerged as a response to various social and political movements in modern times. Lastly, monotheism, the belief in a single deity, was not predominant in ancient Egypt, as the Egyptians had a polytheistic religious system, worshipping multiple gods and goddesses.
The political philosophy of the Egyptian government varied across the three major dynastic periods, and none of the given responses accurately describe it.
During the Old Kingdom (2686-2181 BCE), the Egyptian government followed a form of absolute monarchy. The pharaoh held absolute power and was considered a god-like figure. The government was centered around maintaining order and stability through a complex bureaucracy, with the pharaoh as the top authority.
In the Middle Kingdom (2055-1650 BCE), while the pharaoh still held significant power, there was a greater emphasis on the welfare of the people and a more decentralized government. The pharaoh was seen as a shepherd of his people and was expected to provide for their needs.
The New Kingdom (1550-1077 BCE) marked a period of increased militarism and expansion. The pharaohs of this period focused on military conquest and establishing a vast empire. The government became more centralized, with the pharaohs exercising greater control over the administration and religious institutions.
None of these periods can be characterized by capitalism, which is an economic system centered around private ownership and free market trade. Similarly, the concept of a feminist system does not apply to ancient Egypt, as gender roles and hierarchies were deeply entrenched in society. Lastly, monotheism did not emerge in Egypt until the reign of Akhenaten during the late 18th Dynasty, but it did not become a lasting and dominant philosophy. The three major dynastic periods were primarily characterized by a combination of absolute monarchy, bureaucracy, and religious beliefs centered around polytheism and the divine authority of the pharaoh.