It is one of the world’s longest continuous civilizations. In 300 BC Upper and Lower Egypt were united, beginning a period of cultural glory and native rulers that lasted nearly 3,000 years. Historians have divided the history of Egypt into the Old, Middle and New Kingdoms, spanning 31 dynasties and lasting to 322 BC. The highlight of the Old Kingdom was the building of the pyramids of Giza. The Middle Kingdom saw Egypt develop into great power. Massive temples and tombs, such as Tutankhamun’s were built during the New Kingdom.

Another classification is the pyramid age (3490-2500 BC), the Feudal Age (about 1800 BC), the New Empire (about 1150 BC). In the fourth and third millennium, the Pharaohs held supreme power. The Egyptians studied nature with great care. They were aware of five planets. They divided the day-night cycle into twelve hours. They also developed a system of writing called hieroglyphics.