Untitled Flashcards Set

What is Archaeology?

The scientific study of the human past through material remains.

How does archaeology use the scientific method?

Hypotheses are tested against empirical evidence.

What is the difference between archaeology and paleontology?

Archaeology focuses on human history; paleontology studies prehistoric life.

What are the goals of archaeology?

To reconstruct lifeways and explain cultural changes.

What is the main geographic feature that Egypt’s civilization relied on?

The Nile River.

What are the four bordering regions of Egypt?

West: Libya, South: Sudan, North: Mediterranean Sea, East: Red Sea, Israel/Gaza Strip.

What is the significance of the Nile River?

World's longest river, key for transportation, food, and building materials.

What was the Akhet season known for?

Flooding that brought fertile soil to Egypt.

What were Nilometers used for?

To measure water levels and estimate crop yields.

What are cataracts in relation to the Nile River?

Cataracts are rapids, with six total, the first near Aswan.

What were some threats posed by wildlife in ancient Egypt?

Crocodiles and hippos, with hippos being the #1 animal killer.

What is the Buto-Ma’adi Culture known for?

Early trade with Southwest Asia, fishing, and early domestication.

Who is credited with unifying Upper and Lower Egypt?

Narmer (Menes?).

What significant development occurred during the Early Dynastic Period?

Early Writing and Bureaucracy became crucial for administration.

What characterized the Old Kingdom (2686–2181 BC)?

The Age of Pyramids and the rise of large-scale pyramid construction.

What were some decline factors of the Old Kingdom?

Financial strain from pyramid projects and increasing power of local rulers.

What marked the First Intermediate Period?

Political fragmentation with no central authority, with regional rulers competing.

What achievements distinguish the Middle Kingdom?

Political stability, large-scale irrigation projects, and expansion of trade.

What major changes occurred during the Second Intermediate Period?

The rise of the Hyksos, foreign rulers who introduced advanced military technology.

Who were Khamose & Ahmose?

Leaders who resisted the Hyksos and eventually reunited Egypt.

What is referred to as Egypt's Golden Age?

The New Kingdom, marked by military expansion and monumental construction.

Who was Narmer?

The first unifier of Egypt who established Memphis.

What is Djoser known for?

The Step Pyramid at Saqqara, the first large-scale stone structure.

What is Khufu famous for?

Being the builder of the Great Pyramid of Giza.

Who is Akhenaten known for?

Introducing monotheistic Aten worship and moving the capital to Amarna.

What is significant about Tutankhamun?

Known for restoring old gods and his famous intact tomb.

What project is Ramesses II known for?

Signing the first known peace treaty at the Battle of Kadesh.