Government in Egypt

Task card

In this task you will be learning about the government of Egypt: who was in charge and the jobs of each of the members.

The pharaoh was at the top of Egyptian society. The Egyptian people considered him or her a god on earth. The pharaoh was responsible for the balance of the universe including the weather, harvests and well being of the people. The Pharaoh was able to communicate with the gods, and if Egypt went to war, the pharaoh must lead the army into battle.

Although the pharaoh had the final say, the day-to-day running of Egypt was in the hands of various governmental departments.

Pharaoh - the most important

Two Viziers - one in charge of Upper Egypt and one in charge of Lower Egypt.

Egypt was divided up into provinces called nomes. Each nome was supervised by a nomarch who was appointed by the pharaoh. At first the king appointed a new nomarch when the old one died, but over time, the position became hereditary - passed down to the nomarch's son.

Beneath them are the soldiers, artisans and farmers, and at the bottom, the serfs or peasants. Lowest of all were the slaves. To learn more about the government in Ancient Egypt, click here. This site might be helpful as well.

Laws

Every person in Egypt has the right to a trial. They go to ken bet , or town court and stand before judges who are local officials who seek signs from the gods. In criminal cases, Egyptians are innocent until proven guilty. Little proof of the existence of laws and punishment remains.

Activities

1. Give a thorough definition of the following:

Be sure to include details that explain the importance of each to Egypt.

2. Explain what life was like for the peasants in Egypt. (approx. 100 words)

3. Make your own creative diagram to show the hierarchy of power in Egypt.

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