Lesson 10: Changing Laws Over Time
Objective: Understand the basics of the ancient Egyptian economy and trade.
Introductory Video
Introduction
Today, we’re going to explore how the ancient Egyptians managed their economy and trade. The economy is how people get the things they need and want, and trade is when people exchange goods with others. Let’s find out how the ancient Egyptians did all of this!
The Basics of the Ancient Egyptian Economy
- Farming and Agriculture:
- The main way Egyptians got their food was by farming. They grew crops like wheat, barley, and vegetables along the Nile River. They also raised animals such as cows, sheep, and goats.
- Farming was very important because it provided the food that people needed to live and work.
- Crafts and Goods:
- Besides farming, Egyptians made various goods like pottery, textiles (cloth), and tools. Skilled workers, like potters and weavers, created these items.
- They also made beautiful jewelry and artwork that were highly valued.
- Role of the Pharaoh:
- The Pharaoh, or king, was very important in the economy. He owned all the land and resources, and the people worked for him. The Pharaoh collected taxes from the people, often in the form of crops or goods.
- The Pharaoh also managed large building projects, like temples and pyramids, which required a lot of workers and resources.
Trade and Exchange
- Trading with Neighbors:
- Egypt traded goods with neighboring countries. They exchanged items they had in abundance, like grain and linen, for things they needed, like wood and precious metals.
- For example, Egypt traded with places like Nubia (to the south), the Levant (to the northeast), and even places farther away like the Mediterranean region.
- Trade Goods:
- Egypt’s main trade items included grain, papyrus (used for making paper), and linen (a type of fabric). They received goods like cedar wood, which was used for building, and precious stones like turquoise and lapis lazuli.
- They also traded for luxury items like perfumes and spices.
- Trade Routes:
- Ancient Egyptians used various routes for trade. They traveled by boat along the Nile River and across the Mediterranean Sea. For long journeys, they used caravans of camels to cross deserts.
Conclusion
The ancient Egyptian economy was based on farming, crafting, and trade. The Egyptians grew food, made useful items, and traded with their neighbours to get things they didn’t have. The Pharaoh played a big role in managing the economy and large projects. By understanding how the ancient Egyptians managed their economy and trade, we get a glimpse into how they built their incredible civilization.