Overview
This lecture covers the Third Intermediate Period of ancient Egypt, examining its causes, the impact of external and internal pressures, and the changes in rule and culture during this era.
The Bronze Age Collapse and Background
- The Bronze Age (c. 3000–1200 BCE) saw widespread civilization growth, use of bronze, writing, and monumental architecture.
- Around 1100 BCE, many major cities in the Mediterranean and Near East collapsed almost simultaneously.
- Causes of this collapse include drought-induced famine, internal rebellions, and outside invasions.
The End of the New Kingdom
- Egypt faced invasions from the Sea Peoples, a confederation of naval groups from various regions.
- Egyptian pharaohs battled these groups but still experienced decline shortly after.
- Internally, conflict grew between the pharaohs and powerful priests of Amun, who gained control over land and resources.
The Third Intermediate Period (1069–664 BCE)
- Marked by both external invasions and internal division; Egypt lost its external territories and suffered from regional fragmentation.
- The 21st Dynasty featured native Egyptian rulers, while the 22nd and 23rd Dynasties saw Libyan groups take power.
- The period included significant instability, with multiple competing rulers and dynasties.
Foreign Rule and Regionalism
- Shoshenq I (22nd Dynasty) was a Libyan ruler who limited priestly power and stabilized Egypt temporarily.
- After his successors, Egypt fractured into regions ruled from cities such as Heracleopolis, Hermopolis, Memphis, Tanis, and Sais.
- The 24th Dynasty was brief and unstable.
Nubian Influence and the 25th Dynasty
- Nubian rulers took advantage of the chaos, with Kashta and Piye expanding into Egypt and starting the 25th Dynasty.
- Nubian kings, especially Shebaka and Taharqa, reunited most of Egypt and restored religious-political unity.
- Nubians revived pyramid building—smaller and steeper than earlier Egyptian pyramids.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Bronze Age — Era characterized by bronze tools, writing, and early cities (c. 3000–1200 BCE).
- Sea Peoples — Groups of naval invaders disrupting eastern Mediterranean societies during the late Bronze Age.
- Third Intermediate Period — Era of Egyptian history (1069–664 BCE) marked by fragmentation and foreign rule.
- Priests of Amun — Influential religious leaders based in Thebes, who rivaled pharaohs for power.
- Shoshenq I — Libyan-born pharaoh who established the 22nd Dynasty.
- Nubia — Region south of Egypt; its rulers formed Egypt’s 25th Dynasty.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review the roles of the Sea Peoples, Libyans, and Nubians in Egyptian history.
- Read the "Report of Wenamun" for insight into Egypt’s weakened foreign status.
- Prepare for discussion on the effects of foreign rule and political fragmentation.