12 Mind-Blowing Ancient Egyptian Revelations | Smithsonian Channel
Smithsonian Channel・26 minutes read
A groundbreaking study linked failed Nile floods in Cleopatra's reign to Greenland's ice sheets, while discoveries in Hierakonpolis revealed a prehistoric zoo preceding major inventions, shaping early Egyptian history. The eruption in 44 BC caused global effects, impacting Cleopatra's decisions during the Roman civil war, with famine and disease potentially influencing her choices.
Insights
- Dogs played a crucial role in prehistoric Egypt, serving as hunters, guards, herders, and even companions, as evidenced by their burial in the cemetery and presence in the zoo.
- Cleopatra's reign was marred by environmental turmoil, including failed Nile floods due to a volcanic eruption, causing widespread famine and disease that influenced her decisions during the Roman civil war, showcasing the impact of natural disasters on historical events.
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Recent questions
What was the significance of dogs in prehistoric Hierakonpolis?
Dogs played a crucial role in hunting, guarding, herding, and capturing animals in the prehistoric complex of Hierakonpolis. They were essential for domestication and were buried in the cemetery alongside over 60 dogs, indicating their importance in the society. The discovery of a prehistoric zoo in Hierakonpolis, dating back over 6,000 years, showcased the early use of animals for various purposes, highlighting the sophisticated operation to capture wild animals.
How did Psamtik I come to power in Egypt?
Psamtik I, witnessing his father's subjugation by the Assyrians, was chosen by them to govern Egypt after his father's death. He utilized Greek mercenaries as elite warriors to conquer neighboring city-states, eventually gaining control of the North by 651 BCE. This strategic use of mercenaries and alliances with foreign powers helped Psamtik secure his position as a ruler in Egypt.
What was the role of the solar boat discovered in the Valley of the Kings?
The solar boat discovered in a tomb in the Valley of the Kings was believed to be designed for the sun god, symbolizing the journey of the sun through the underworld. This boat held significant religious and symbolic importance in Egyptian beliefs, particularly in ensuring the sun's rebirth each day. Its discovery shed light on the religious practices and beliefs surrounding the afterlife in ancient Egypt.
How did the volcanic eruption in 44 BC impact Cleopatra's reign?
The volcanic eruption in 44 BC led to failed Nile floods, causing famine and disease in Egypt during Cleopatra's reign. This environmental turmoil influenced Cleopatra's decisions during the Roman civil war, as she faced challenges due to the widespread effects of the eruption. The famine and disease following the eruption likely contributed to Cleopatra's struggles, affecting her choices and actions in the political landscape of the time.
What was the disturbing tradition revealed by the mass slaughter of humans and animals in Hierakonpolis?
The mass slaughter of humans and animals in Hierakonpolis marked a ruler's passing and revealed a disturbing tradition of systematically slaughtering individuals for burial. Animals from the prehistoric zoo were buried with early rulers, indicating a sacrificial practice associated with death and burial rituals. This tradition showcased the complex and sometimes brutal customs of ancient societies, shedding light on the beliefs and practices of early civilizations.
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