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History of Egypt, Chaldæa, Syria, Babylonia, and Assyria, Volume 5 (of 12)

By G. Maspero

Summary of History of Egypt, Chaldæa, Syria, Babylonia, and Assyria, Volume 5 (of 12)

The book provides a comprehensive history of ancient Egypt, specifically focusing on the 18th Theban dynasty and its interactions with other nations. The dynasty's expansion under Thutmosis III, Amenothnes II, Thutmosis IV, and Amenothnes III is detailed, including their military conquests, trade relationships, and cultural exchanges. The reigns of these pharaohs were marked by significant achievements, such as the establishment of vassal states, the development of industry and agriculture, and the construction of temples and monuments. However, the rise of the Hittite empire in Syria and Asia Minor posed a challenge to Egyptian dominance, leading to a treaty of peace and friendship between the Egyptians and the Hittites. The book also explores the culture, religion, and politics of the Hittites and their relationships with other nations. The later chapters discuss the close of the Theban Empire, including the reigns of Pharaohs Mînephtah and Seti II, and the decline of the empire in the face of internal power struggles and external threats. Overall, the book provides a detailed and engaging account of ancient Egypt's history during this period, highlighting its achievements, challenges, and interactions with other nations.

Chapter Summary of History of Egypt, Chaldæa, Syria, Babylonia, and Assyria, Volume 5 (of 12)

CHAPTER I—THE EIGHTEENTH THEBAN DYNASTY—(continued)

The chapter continues the history of the 18th Theban dynasty, focusing on the reigns of Thutmosis III, Amenothnes II, Thutmosis IV, and Amenothnes III. Thutmosis III expanded Egypt's empire, conquering Syria and establishing a system of vassal states. He also established trade relationships with other nations, including the exchange of goods and marriage alliances. Amenothnes II and Thutmosis IV continued this expansion, with Thutmosis IV having a dream that led him to clear the sand from the Great Sphinx and build a chapel in its honor. Amenothnes III, who reigned for 40 years, focused on developing Egypt's industry and agriculture, and built many temples and monuments, including the temple at Soleb in Nubia. He also maintained peaceful relationships with other nations, including the marriage of his daughter to a foreign king. The chapter also discusses the administration of the empire, including the use of governors, messengers, and treaties to maintain control and resolve disputes. Additionally, it touches on the cultural exchange between Egypt and other nations, including the adoption of foreign gods and the spread of Egyptian culture throughout the empire.

CHAPTER II—THE REACTION AGAINST EGYPT

The chapter continues the history of ancient Egypt, focusing on the 18th dynasty and the rise of the Hittite empire in Syria and Asia Minor. The Egyptian Pharaohs, including Thutmosis III, Amenothnes II, and Amenothnes III, expanded Egypt's empire and established trade relationships with other nations. However, the Hittite empire, led by King Sapalulu, began to challenge Egyptian dominance in Syria. The Egyptian Pharaoh Harmhabî concluded a treaty of peace and friendship with the Hittites, recognizing their control over northern Syria. The chapter also discusses the culture, religion, and politics of the Hittites, as well as their relationships with other nations, including Egypt and the Mitanni. The Hittite empire's expansion into Asia Minor and its interactions with various tribes and cities, such as the Lycians, Mysians, and Carians, are also explored. The chapter concludes with the reign of Pharaoh Ramses I, who succeeded Harmhabî and faced challenges from the Hittites and other nations.

CHAPTER III—THE CLOSE OF THE THEBAN EMPIRE

The chapter discusses the close of the Theban Empire, focusing on the reigns of Pharaohs Mînephtah and Seti II. Mînephtah's military campaigns against the Libyans and other neighboring tribes are described, as well as his building projects and administrative reforms. The chapter also touches on the cultural and economic developments of the time, including the influence of foreign cultures on Egyptian art and literature. The reign of Seti II is also discussed, including his struggles with internal power struggles and external threats from the Hittites and other nations. The chapter concludes with a description of the decline of the Theban Empire and the rise of new powers in the region.