This civilization emerged at the northern tip of the Nile River. Annual flooding provided rich, fertile soil for planting. Because the Nile flooded each year from July until late October or November, ancient Egyptians had the ability to plan for planting and harvesting. The Nile River Valley Civilization was also surrounded by natural barriers, such as deserts and the Red and Mediterranean seas. These natural barriers served as protection against invading rivals.
Inhabitants of the Nile River Valley Civilization had an economy based on farming. The predictable flooding seasons created fertile soil for the next year’s planting season. The successful farming of this civilization led to a wealthy society with a surplus of food. The Egyptians traded grains and other food products with people from other countries. The waterways were used to transport goods for trade.
The social structure of the Nile River Valley Civilization involved a diverse class system. Pharaohs ruled the land and its people. The rule of the region was passed down from one generation to the next, creating a royal dynasty.
Ancient Egyptians were advanced in science and technology. Click on the link below to watch a video clip that illustrates how ancient Egyptians used geometry.
What the Ancients Knew: Geometry in Egypt
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Ancient Egyptians used geometry to construct the corridors of the tombs.
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The art on the wall depicts the events in the life of those buried there.
Ancient Egyptians constructed pyramids that were used as tombs for pharaohs and queens. Click on the link below to take a virtual tour of the pyramids of Ancient Egypt.
Ancient Egyptians developed a writing system called hieroglyphics, which was a combination of pictures and symbols. Only a few individuals, called scribes, knew how to read and write and were responsible for remembering the many hieroglyphics.
Pictured above is Egyptian hieroglyphics on papyrus, a paper-like material made from the papyrus plant.
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