This lesson examines how weakening central authority allowed the Hyksos to establish rule in Lower Egypt, and how Theban rulers eventually reunited the country. The Hyksos period brought conflict, but it also introduced military technologies that reshaped Egyptian warfare.
During the late Middle Kingdom, centralized Egyptian authority declined. With weaker border enforcement, Semitic-speaking people from Canaan migrated into the Nile delta. Historians do not know exactly why they came: some may have fled invasions in Canaan, while others may have first arrived as traders and later brought their families.
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What was the Second Intermediate Period?
A period, approximately 1720–1540 BCE, when centralized Egyptian rule weakened and Egypt was divided among the Hyksos in Lower Egypt, Theban rulers in Upper Egypt, and Kush to the south.
Who were the Hyksos?
A people of Canaanite background who established a dynasty in Lower Egypt. They adopted many Egyptian customs and maintained connections with Canaan and the wider Near East.
What did the Hyksos introduce or help spread in Egypt?
Important military technologies included bronze-making, composite bows, armor, and light chariots with spoked wheels.
Why did the Theban rulers hesitate to attack the Hyksos?
The Hyksos were allied with Kush, making an attack on Lower Egypt dangerous for the Theban kingdom.
What was Ahmose I’s historical importance?
He defeated the Hyksos at Avaris, restored Egyptian control over Lower Egypt, and began the New Kingdom.
Quiz questions
How did Hatshepsut move from serving as regent to ruling Egypt?Answer: She declared herself co-ruler and assumed the title of pharaoh.
How did Akhenaten’s religious reforms affect royal authority?Answer: They made the royal family the main intermediaries between the people and Aton.
What was the practical outcome of Ramesses II’s campaign at Qadesh?Answer: Egypt did not capture the city, and the Hittites remained a powerful rival.
What did the treaty between Ramesses II and the Hittites accomplish?Answer: It formalized peace between the rival powers around 1258 BCE.
Which set of pressures contributed to the end of the New Kingdom?Answer: Economic strain, attacks, and rebellion among Nubian subjects.
Based on World History Volume 1, to 1500 by Ann Kordas, Ryan J. Lynch, Brooke Nelson, Julie Tatlock (OpenStax), licensed CC BY 4.0. Adapted into a summary, flashcards and quizzes.