Are you wondering why Egypt is often called the cradle of civilization?
Exactly Civilization!
Then, let’s both research and see the reason behind this appellation.
While commemorating Belarus’s National Day in 2023, Ambassador Sergei Terentiev of Belarus lauded Egypt as the birthplace of global civilization and the Egyptian government’s efforts to protect its rich cultural and historical legacy. This was the beginning of my curiosity.
Egypt, often called the “cradle of civilization,” is a significant historical and influential centre of human civilization. It emerged around 3100 BCE and lasted for thousands of years along the banks of the Nile River in northeastern Africa. The ancient Egyptians made significant advancements in various fields, including architecture, engineering, agriculture, art, writing, and science.
The ancient Egyptians developed one of the earliest writing systems in the world, hieroglyphics, which was used for religious texts, monumental inscriptions, and official documents. They also built monumental structures such as pyramids, temples, and tombs, with the Great Pyramid of Giza one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
The ancient Egyptian religion, with its pantheon of gods and complex beliefs about the afterlife, influenced art, culture, and societal norms. The fertile soil of the Nile River Delta allowed the ancient Egyptians to develop advanced agricultural practices, leading to food surplus and the growth of a settled society.
Egypt’s strategic location at the crossroads of Africa and the Middle East made it a trade and cultural exchange hub. The Nile River served as a vital trade route, connecting Egypt to neighbouring regions and allowing the flow of goods, ideas, and technologies.
The legacy of ancient Egypt continues to influence modern culture, art, and architecture, with visitors drawn to its historical sites and artefacts.
The more exciting part is that women in ancient Egypt could own property, file lawsuits, and generally function as separate legal entities, making them almost legal equals to males. Compared to women in other ancient societies, especially the Greeks, they also had greater legal liberty.
This recognition, to an extent, spills into the Egypt of today. Women are highly regarded and almost worshipped as priestesses.
It suffices to say that cultural continuity has placed Egypt on that pedestal of civilization.
Scribes played a crucial role in the continuity of Egyptian politics and culture for thousands of years, recording everything from tax records to sacred prayers. They used the same language and symbols, providing cultural glue and continuity throughout the great dynasties and intermediate periods.
Ancient Egypt is a testament to human ingenuity, resilience, and creativity, with its impressive monuments and rich cultural tapestry. Its remnants remind us of the enduring mysteries and marvels that continue to captivate us, leaving an indelible mark on the world.
