His. 1.1 Ch. 3 Study Terms

Egyptian Afterlife

• The ancient Egyptians believed in a complex afterlife known as the Duat.

• The heart was weighed against the feather of Ma'at to determine one's fate.

• Osiris was the god of the afterlife and resurrection.

• Mummification was essential for preserving the body for the afterlife.

• The Book of the Dead contained spells to aid the deceased in the afterlife.

• Tombs were filled with goods and offerings for the deceased.

• The Field of Reeds was the ideal afterlife destination for the righteous.

• The concept of judgment after death was central to Egyptian beliefs.

Bronze Age Collapse

• The Bronze Age Collapse (circa 1200-1150 BCE) led to the fall of several ancient civilizations in the Eastern Mediterranean.

• Major civilizations affected included the Hittites, Mycenaeans, and the Egyptian New Kingdom.

• Theories for the collapse include invasions by the Sea Peoples, internal rebellions, and natural disasters.

• Trade networks were disrupted, leading to economic decline and loss of literacy.

• The period marked a transition to the Iron Age and significant cultural changes.

• Archaeological evidence shows widespread destruction and abandonment of cities.

• The collapse resulted in a loss of centralized political structures and technological regression.

Assyrians

• The Assyrians were an ancient Semitic civilization that emerged in Mesopotamia around 2500 BCE.

• They established one of the first empires in history, known for its military prowess and conquests.

• The capital city of the Assyrian Empire was Nineveh, which housed the famous Library of Ashurbanipal.

• Assyrians developed one of the earliest forms of writing, cuneiform script.

• They practiced a polytheistic religion, worshipping gods like Ashur and Ishtar.

• The Assyrian Empire fell in 612 BCE due to a coalition of Medes, Babylonians, and Scythians.

• Modern Assyrians are an ethnic group primarily found in Iraq, Syria, and diaspora communities worldwide.

Phoenicians

• Established one of the first alphabets, influencing modern writing systems.

• Renowned for maritime trade and exploration across the Mediterranean.

• Founded major city-states like Tyre, Sidon, and Byblos.

• Developed advanced shipbuilding techniques and navigation skills.

• Known for purple dye production, a luxury item in ancient times.

• Engaged in extensive trade networks, exporting goods like glass and textiles.

• Practiced polytheism, worshipping gods like Baal and Astarte.

• Contributed to the spread of culture and technology throughout the Mediterranean.

• Established colonies, including Carthage, which became a major power.

• Influenced neighboring cultures through trade and cultural exchange.

The Nile River

• The Nile River is the longest river in the world, stretching about 4,135 miles (6,650 kilometers).

• It flows through 11 countries, including Uganda, Sudan, and Egypt.

• The Nile has two major tributaries: the White Nile and the Blue Nile.

• It is crucial for agriculture in Egypt, providing fertile soil through annual flooding.

• The Nile was central to ancient Egyptian civilization, serving as a transportation route and source of water.

• The river supports diverse ecosystems and wildlife, including crocodiles and various fish species.

• Major cities along the Nile include Cairo, Khartoum, and Juba.

Egyptian Queens

• Cleopatra VII was the last active ruler of the Ptolemaic Kingdom of Egypt.

• Hatshepsut was one of the first female pharaohs, known for her prosperous reign.

• Nefertiti was famous for her beauty and her role in the Amarna period.

• Tiye, wife of Amenhotep III, was influential in politics and religion.

• Cleopatra II co-ruled with her son and was involved in significant political alliances.

• Nefertari was the first wife of Ramses II and known for her lavish tomb.

• Sobekneferu was the first confirmed female pharaoh of Egypt.

Ancient Hebrews

• The Ancient Hebrews are known for their monotheistic belief in one God, Yahweh.

• They are the ancestors of the Jewish people and played a significant role in the development of Judaism.

• The Hebrew Bible, or Tanakh, is a central religious text that includes the Torah, Prophets, and Writings.

• The Exodus, the departure from Egypt, is a foundational event in Hebrew history.

• The Kingdom of Israel was established around 1000 BCE, with notable kings like Saul, David, and Solomon.

• The Babylonian Exile (586 BCE) was a pivotal moment that influenced Jewish identity and religion.

• The Ancient Hebrews contributed to legal, ethical, and moral frameworks still relevant today.