The Old KingdomSocial Studies for 8th E.G.B. | Teacher: Mauricio

Torres

Introduction

The same way the Sumerians organized their society into different social classes, the Egyptians’ social structure was arranged in the same way.

A small group (nobles) ruled Egypt.

A bigger group provided food, crafts and labor.

Early Egyptian Society

The Old Kingdom

began when the Third

Dynasty rose to power

around 2700 BC. It lasted

for 500 years.

Pyramid of Djoser.- This first Egyptian pyramid consisted of six mastabas (of decreasing size) built atop one another. 2600 BC.

Pharaohs

The Pharaohs were believed to be descendants of the sun god, Ra, making them half gods and kings.

Because of this, the Egyptians believed that the gods owned Egypt and the Pharaoh was the “manager”. Therefore, the Pharaoh had absolute power!

But, Pharaohs were also blamed if bad things happened. They were also demanded that trade be profitable and wars be prevented.

Khufu

The most famous pharaoh of the Old Kingdom was Khufu (Kheops).

Some people say he was a good ruler, while other historians like Herodotus, labeled him a cruel tyrant.

He is responsible for many monuments, including the Great Pyramid of Giza (2500 BC).

Social Structure

By 2200 BC, Egypt had 2 million people.

There were three different social classes:

Nobles: People from rich families.

Middle class: Gov. officials, scribes, craftsmen, soldiers.

Lower class: farmers and slaves (80% of the complete population)

Egypt and its Neighbors

Egypt was well protected by its geography, but not completely isolated.

Sumerian designs can be found in Egyptian art.

Style from Nubia (south of Egypt) are also found.

Trade with their neighbors allowed them to import different items:

Nubia: gold, ivory, slaves and stone.

Punt: incense and myrrh.

Syria: wood.

Ask Yourself

Recall:

For how long did the Old Kingdom last?

Drawing conclusions:

What responsibilities did the pharaoh have that balanced his high status?

Make Judgments:

What may be some advantages and disadvantages for such a large segment of the population being farmers, servants and slaves?

Art Workshop!

Imagine you have been asked by the government of Egypt to design stamps to commemorate the 4700th anniversary of the Old Kingdom’s beginning. Choose one of the subjects studied in class and draw a stamp!

Afterwards, write a short summary (one paragraph) of the topic you illustrated.