When did the New Kingdom of Egypt begin and end?
The New Kingdom of Egypt began in 1570 BC and ended in 1069 BC. This period spanned from the 16th century BC to the 11th century BC and included the Eighteenth, Nineteenth, and Twentieth dynasties.
Common questions about New Kingdom of Egypt
Short answers, pulled from the story.
Who founded the New Kingdom of Egypt and what was his strategy?
Ahmose I founded the New Kingdom of Egypt by aggressively pursuing the Hyksos back to their homeland in the Levant. His campaigns were preemptive strikes designed to ensure that no foreign power could ever threaten Egypt again.
How did Hatshepsut rule the New Kingdom of Egypt?
Hatshepsut took the throne in her own right and adopted the full regalia of kingship including the false beard and the kilt. Her reign focused on a massive building program and the re-establishment of trade networks rather than military conquest.
What was the religious revolution of Akhenaten in the New Kingdom of Egypt?
Akhenaten changed his name to honor the Aten and is often interpreted as history's first instance of monotheism. His religious fervor led to the complete restructuring of the state and the stripping of power from the priesthood of Amun.
What happened during the reign of Ramesses II in the New Kingdom of Egypt?
Ramesses II fought the Battle of Kadesh against the Hittites and later concluded a peace treaty with them. He built extensively throughout Egypt and Nubia including the Ramesseum and the rock temples of Abu Simbel.
Why did the New Kingdom of Egypt decline and end?
The New Kingdom of Egypt declined due to heavy warfare costs, environmental factors like the Hekla 3 eruption, and the growing power of the priests of Amon. The empire ended when the High Priests of Amun ruled Upper Egypt and Smendes controlled Lower Egypt.