34 CultureShock! Egypt
Intermediate Period, much of Egyptian history is a result of
archaeological and artistic reconstruction. From this period
forward, however, documents remain that provide a much
more traditional historical record.
Finally, Egypt began what is termed the Late Kingdom
(ca 712–332 BC), a period of reunification established under
rule of the Nubian pharaoh, King Shebaka. Twice during the
Late Kingdom, Egypt came under Persian rule. The Second
Persian Invasion succeeded in 343 BC, but lasted only a
short time before Egypt came under the rule of the great
Macedonian warrior, Alexander the Great.
The Second Persian Invasion marks an important point
in Egyptian history. It signifies the beginning of 2,600 years
of foreign domination. Independent rule was not reinstated
in Egypt until Gamal Abdel Nasser’s expulsion of the British
puppet, King Farouk, in 1952.Greco-Roman Period (332 BC–AD 395)
Alexander marched unopposed into Egypt in 332 BC. At the
mouth of the Delta, Alexander founded the city of Alexandria
designed to be the capital of his empire. For the next nine
hundred years, Alexandria was the great centre of learning
in the Middle East.
When Alexander died in 323 BC, he was succeeded by his
able general, Ptolemy, under the nominal rule of Alexander’s
brother Philip. Once Philip died, Ptolemy became sole
ruler, establishing a dynasty that lasted until the death of
Cleopatra VII in 30 BC. Alexander’s immense empire barely
survived his death. His generals carved up the empire and
fought among themselves to try to conquer more territory.
Ptolemy embraced the Egyptian religion, a practice followed
by his successors. Whether for political reasons or sincere
belief, the practice helped secure the lands of Egypt under
Ptolemaic rule.
The Ptolemies ruled from Alexandria, but became
increasingly out of touch with the Egyptian people. In fact,
until the last Cleopatra, the Ptolemies did not even speak
the Egyptian language. It is during this period that Egypt
undertook the last of its grand architectural and sacred artistic