Egypt, Axum, and Kush

Mediterranean Sea

A large sea north of Egypt that helped connect ancient civilizations through trade and travel.

Topography

The shape and features of land, such as mountains, rivers, deserts, and valleys.

Nile River

A long river in Egypt that provided water, fertile soil, food, and transportation.

Delta

A triangle-shaped area of fertile land where a river splits before flowing into a sea.

Afterlife

Life after death; Egyptians believed the soul continued living after the body died.

Papyrus

A plant used by Egyptians to make a paper-like material for writing.

Hieroglyphics

An Egyptian writing system that used pictures and symbols.

Social Pyramid

A chart showing social classes from most powerful at the top to least powerful at the bottom.

Treaty

A formal agreement between two groups or countries.

Dynasty

A series of rulers from the same family.

Sarcophagus

A stone coffin often used to hold a mummy.

Pharaoh

The ruler of ancient Egypt, believed to have political and religious power.

Embalming

The process of preserving a body after death to prepare it for burial.

Pyramid

A large stone tomb built for Egyptian pharaohs and important rulers.

Qore (from Kush)

A title for a ruler or king in the Kingdom of Kush, usually a man.

Kandake (from Kush)

A powerful female leader who usually co-ruled Kush with her husband or sons.