New Kingdom of Egypt
The most prosperous and powerful era of ancient Egypt.
The New Kingdom, also called the Egyptian Empire, refers to ancient Egypt between the 16th century BC and the 11th century BC. This period covers the Eighteenth, Nineteenth, and Twentieth dynasties and was the most prosperous time for ancient Egypt, marking the peak of its power. It followed the Second Intermediate Period and was succeeded by the Third Intermediate Period.
- Period
- 16th century BC to 11th century BC
- Dynasties
- Eighteenth, Nineteenth, Twentieth
- Known for
- Greatest territorial extent, peak of Egyptian power, Ramesside period
Lore & Background
The Nineteenth Dynasty was founded by Ramesses I, chosen as successor by Horemheb. Seti I fought wars in western Asia, Libya, and Nubia, capturing the Syrian town of Kadesh from the Hittites, though it soon reverted to Hittite control. Ramesses II sought to recover territories in the Levant and fought the Hittites at the Battle of Kadesh, which ended with an undecided outcome and a peace treaty. The later part of the New Kingdom, under the Nineteenth and Twentieth Dynasties, is known as the Ramesside period, named after eleven pharaohs who took the name Ramesses.
Reader's Guide
The New Kingdom represents the zenith of ancient Egyptian civilization, marked by unprecedented territorial expansion, wealth, and cultural achievement. Its pharaohs extended Egyptian control into the Levant and Nubia, creating an empire that stretched from the Euphrates to Nubia. The period saw the construction of monumental architecture such as the Luxor Temple and the Karnak complex, as well as the development of distinctive art styles, notably during the Amarna period under Akhenaten. The Ramesside period, named after the many pharaohs called Ramesses, continued this legacy, though it faced challenges from the Hittites and the Sea Peoples. Its history provides crucial insights into ancient international relations, military strategy, and religious evolution.
Did You Know?
- Thutmose III is recorded to have captured 350 cities during his rule and conducted at least 16 campaigns in 20 years.
- Akhenaten's worship of the Aten is often interpreted as history's first instance of monotheism.
- The Battle of Kadesh, fought by Ramesses II against the Hittites, ended with an undecided outcome and resulted in a peace treaty.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the New Kingdom of Egypt?
The New Kingdom, sometimes called the Egyptian Empire, spans roughly the 16th through 11th centuries BC and is widely regarded as the golden age of ancient Egypt. It encompasses three dynasties and represents the period when Egypt held its largest territory and greatest influence.
Which dynasties are included in the New Kingdom?
The New Kingdom covers the Eighteenth, Nineteenth, and Twentieth dynasties. Together these three dynasties produced Egypt's most ambitious pharaohs, its most ambitious military campaigns, and its most lavish temple complexes.
Why do historians call the New Kingdom the peak of Egyptian power?
During this era Egypt achieved its greatest territorial extent, projecting military force deep into the Levant and Nubia while enjoying unmatched economic prosperity. Monumental building projects, a professional standing army, and diplomatic dominance all mark this as the high-water mark of Egyptian civilization.
What came before and after the New Kingdom?
The New Kingdom followed the fragmented Second Intermediate Period and was eventually succeeded by the Third Intermediate Period. This sequence shows Egypt recovering from political division to reach its zenith, then gradually losing central authority over the following centuries.
What is the Ramesside period?
The Ramesside period refers to the Nineteenth and Twentieth dynasties, named after the pharaoh Ramesses II and his successors. It marks the later phase of the New Kingdom and is especially noted for massive temple construction and a long stretch of relative political stability.
More in Historical Eras 1-20
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