The power of the Pharoahs decreased as Egypt suffered
invasions from foreign powers which the Pharoahs were unable to prevent. Following the
death of Alexander the Great (who had had himself crowned Pharaoh,) the Egyptian Empire
was considerably smaller than in previous years. Alexander's general, Ptolemy, created
another dynasty which included Cleopatra; but at this point Egypt was overshadowed by
the growing power of Rome.
The Northern and Southern
Kingdoms of Egypt were originally united under the legendary Pharaoh Menes. It was Menes
who founded the first Dynasty and was considered the earthly manifestation of the god
Horus. He was also believed to be responsible for the flooding of the Nile, which was
vital to Egyptian civilization.
Over time, several parts of
Egypt broke away from central control and declared their autonomy. During the Middle
Kingdom, (2040-2640 B.C.E.) the Pharaohs were able to exert some control over these
areas, but never to the extent that had previously existed. Invasions from the Hyskos,
who used bronze weapons as opposed to the wooden weapons of the Egyptians, caused
resentment among powerful Egyptian nobles who caused a revolt. The Hyskos were
eventually expelled, but again with a loss of power to the Pharoah. Ultimately, about
700 B.C.E. Kushite and Assyrian armies invaded Egypt. The Kushites were eventually
expelled; but the Assyrians ruled Egypt for almost 100 years before their own empire
collapsed.
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