In this Grade 6 lesson from History Alive! The Ancient World, students explore the reigns of key ancient Egyptian pharaohs — including Khufu, Hatshepsut, and Ramses II — and examine what each ruler accomplished during the Old Kingdom, Middle Kingdom, and New Kingdom periods. Students learn how pharaohs exercised political and religious authority, and analyze the monumental structures, such as the Great Pyramid at Giza, built to reflect their power. The lesson also introduces the concept of a treaty and uses archaeological evidence, including artifacts from King Tutankhamen's tomb, to understand ancient Egyptian civilization.
Section 1
Pharaohs Shape Three Great Kingdoms
Historians divide ancient Egypt's long history into three major periods of strength and unity. The first was the Old Kingdom, an era when pharaohs with absolute power commanded the construction of the great pyramids.
Following a period of disorder, pharaohs reunited the country to begin the Middle Kingdom. This time is known for its great achievements in art, literature, and architecture, which were meant to celebrate the rulers.
Section 2
Pharaohs Ruled as Living Gods
In ancient Egypt, the pharaoh was more than just a king. People believed the pharaoh was a god on Earth, chosen to maintain order and balance throughout the kingdom. This divine status placed the ruler at the very center of Egyptian life and religion.
As a living god, the pharaoh held absolute power. The ruler was the head of the government, the commander of the army, and the highest priest. The pharaoh’s word was law, and all major decisions, from building temples to leading soldiers into battle, were under their control.
Section 3
Pharaohs Create Lasting Legacies
Pharaohs wanted to be remembered long after they ruled. To leave a lasting legacy, they used their power to oversee great projects and lead important missions that would showcase their greatness.
These accomplishments are how we remember them today. Rulers built huge monuments like the Great Pyramid, sponsored beautiful art and architecture, expanded trade with other kingdoms, and led armies in battle. Each achievement was meant to secure a pharaoh's place in history.
Section 4
Pharaohs Use Trade to Build Alliances
Ancient Egypt was powerful, but it lacked important resources like wood and certain metals. Pharaohs organized long-distance trade expeditions to bring these valuable goods from other lands, such as the kingdom of Punt.
This regular exchange of goods created important connections with other kingdoms. To keep the peace, pharaohs used diplomacy. For example, Ramses II signed the world's first known peace treaty with the Hittite Empire, ending a long war.
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Section 1
Pharaohs Shape Three Great Kingdoms
Historians divide ancient Egypt's long history into three major periods of strength and unity. The first was the Old Kingdom, an era when pharaohs with absolute power commanded the construction of the great pyramids.
Following a period of disorder, pharaohs reunited the country to begin the Middle Kingdom. This time is known for its great achievements in art, literature, and architecture, which were meant to celebrate the rulers.
Section 2
Pharaohs Ruled as Living Gods
In ancient Egypt, the pharaoh was more than just a king. People believed the pharaoh was a god on Earth, chosen to maintain order and balance throughout the kingdom. This divine status placed the ruler at the very center of Egyptian life and religion.
As a living god, the pharaoh held absolute power. The ruler was the head of the government, the commander of the army, and the highest priest. The pharaoh’s word was law, and all major decisions, from building temples to leading soldiers into battle, were under their control.
Section 3
Pharaohs Create Lasting Legacies
Pharaohs wanted to be remembered long after they ruled. To leave a lasting legacy, they used their power to oversee great projects and lead important missions that would showcase their greatness.
These accomplishments are how we remember them today. Rulers built huge monuments like the Great Pyramid, sponsored beautiful art and architecture, expanded trade with other kingdoms, and led armies in battle. Each achievement was meant to secure a pharaoh's place in history.
Section 4
Pharaohs Use Trade to Build Alliances
Ancient Egypt was powerful, but it lacked important resources like wood and certain metals. Pharaohs organized long-distance trade expeditions to bring these valuable goods from other lands, such as the kingdom of Punt.
This regular exchange of goods created important connections with other kingdoms. To keep the peace, pharaohs used diplomacy. For example, Ramses II signed the world's first known peace treaty with the Hittite Empire, ending a long war.
Book overview
Jump across lessons in the current chapter without opening the full course modal.
Continue this chapter