Essay Questions

A. Describe the Social Hierarchy of ancient Egyptians

       The Ancient Egyptians had a system labeling you social class by your job. There where 8 levels in this "social class pyramid." From the bottom up it went: Slaves-Servants, Farmers, Artisans, Merchants, Scribes, Soldiers, Government-Officials - Nobles - Priest, and then the Pharaoh. On the bottom of the pyramid was the slaves and servants. The slaves and servants help the upper class people with the household duties they didn't want to do. Such as raising children, cleaning, and cooking. Next were the Farmers, they grew all the food for the citizens of ancient Egypt. They grew things like: wheat, barley, lentils, and onions. Their growing benefited from the Nile River. Above them were the Artisans, who were what you could call the artist of the community. They carved statues and reliefs that portrayed military battles and the after life. Next were the merchants, they were barters. Merchants used the money/barter system to give or get goods.
        The next people on the "Social Class Pyramid" were considered to be part of the "White Kilt Class." The people in the White Kilt Class were they people in the top of the social class. They were known to wear crisp white garments to show their specialty. Next up on the Social Class List were Scribes, the recorders and writers of ancient Egypt. The Scribes kept records, wrote and told stories, wrote poetry, describes anatomy, and medical treatments. Above them were the soldiers, they ones who fought in battles. They used wooden weapons with bronze tips and might ride a chariot. Next were the priest, physicians, engineers, and government officials. And on the top of the Social Class was the Pharaoh. The pharaoh had two titles, "Lord of the Two Lands" and "High Priest of Every Temple."

B. Discuss the importance of the Nile River in the lives of the Egyptians 

       The Nile River was a very important aspect in the ancient Egyptian's lives. They Egyptians probably wouldn't of survived without this river. Their whole vegetation surrounded around the river because of its rich soil. Every year in July the river floods the land, but when October comes around the river leaves rich soil that is fantastic for growing crops. The ancient Egyptians developed an idea to irrigate the crops. Today's current world wouldn't be the same without technical advances over 3,000 years ago.