Denis J. Murphy
- Published in print:
- 2007
- Published Online:
- September 2007
- ISBN:
- 9780199207145
- eISBN:
- 9780191708893
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199207145.003.0012
- Subject:
- Biology, Plant Sciences and Forestry
From 8,000-5,500 BP, the African Sahara was a centre for domestication of millets and sorghum. Agriculture in the region was extinguished following a sustained drought after 5,450 BP, but may have ...
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From 8,000-5,500 BP, the African Sahara was a centre for domestication of millets and sorghum. Agriculture in the region was extinguished following a sustained drought after 5,450 BP, but may have contributed to the development of the Nile Valley as one of the greatest agro-urban cultures of the ancient world. In Central Europe, after 8,500 BP, farming was introduced by migrants from the Near East who slowly travelled northwestwards along the fertile river valleys from the Balkans towards the Atlantic coast. Other seaborne migrants brought farming to southern Europe via the Mediterranean. Complex urban cultures did not develop in this region for many millennia. Agro-urban cultures developed separately in Mesoamerica, the Andes, and parts of North America once the indigenous crops could be cultivated under high yield conditions. Social collapse and simplification occurred repeatedly in several parts of the continent, probably due to a combination of climatic and social factors.Less
From 8,000-5,500 BP, the African Sahara was a centre for domestication of millets and sorghum. Agriculture in the region was extinguished following a sustained drought after 5,450 BP, but may have contributed to the development of the Nile Valley as one of the greatest agro-urban cultures of the ancient world. In Central Europe, after 8,500 BP, farming was introduced by migrants from the Near East who slowly travelled northwestwards along the fertile river valleys from the Balkans towards the Atlantic coast. Other seaborne migrants brought farming to southern Europe via the Mediterranean. Complex urban cultures did not develop in this region for many millennia. Agro-urban cultures developed separately in Mesoamerica, the Andes, and parts of North America once the indigenous crops could be cultivated under high yield conditions. Social collapse and simplification occurred repeatedly in several parts of the continent, probably due to a combination of climatic and social factors.
David N. Edwards
- Published in print:
- 2011
- Published Online:
- January 2013
- ISBN:
- 9780197264782
- eISBN:
- 9780191754012
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- British Academy
- DOI:
- 10.5871/bacad/9780197264782.003.0005
- Subject:
- History, World Early Modern History
While it is commonly assumed that slavery, and especially an external slave trade, were significant features of the history of the earlier kingdoms in the Middle Nile, the evidence for this is less ...
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While it is commonly assumed that slavery, and especially an external slave trade, were significant features of the history of the earlier kingdoms in the Middle Nile, the evidence for this is less certain than the confident assertions of earlier scholars might suggest. Drawing on a range of archaeological and historical evidence, this chapter reassesses our current understanding of the development of slavery in this region in the medieval and post-medieval periods. Forms of slavery were clearly ever-present within the Middle Nile region during both periods, with slave taking likely a common practice on the margins of its early kingdoms. A significant external trade in slaves, however, is hard to demonstrate before the sixteenth century. Our perceptions of such a trade as a timeless and eternal feature of the history of the Nile Valley deserve closer scrutiny.Less
While it is commonly assumed that slavery, and especially an external slave trade, were significant features of the history of the earlier kingdoms in the Middle Nile, the evidence for this is less certain than the confident assertions of earlier scholars might suggest. Drawing on a range of archaeological and historical evidence, this chapter reassesses our current understanding of the development of slavery in this region in the medieval and post-medieval periods. Forms of slavery were clearly ever-present within the Middle Nile region during both periods, with slave taking likely a common practice on the margins of its early kingdoms. A significant external trade in slaves, however, is hard to demonstrate before the sixteenth century. Our perceptions of such a trade as a timeless and eternal feature of the history of the Nile Valley deserve closer scrutiny.
Colin Adams
- Published in print:
- 2007
- Published Online:
- January 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780199203970
- eISBN:
- 9780191708077
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199203970.003.0002
- Subject:
- Classical Studies, Asian and Middle Eastern History: BCE to 500CE
This chapter places transport in Roman Egypt into its physical context, discussing the geography and topography of the Nile Valley, Fayum, and desert regions. It studies both the literary and ...
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This chapter places transport in Roman Egypt into its physical context, discussing the geography and topography of the Nile Valley, Fayum, and desert regions. It studies both the literary and papyrological evidence for this, discussing roads and canals, and the problems for transport created by a hydraulic civilization: canals, irrigation channels, dykes, and embankments. It surveys the difficulties encountered by travellers and transporters, and the concern of the state in the upkeep of roads and routes. It considers the nature of desert travel, desert routes, and their transport infrastructure: these routes connected the oases of the Western Desert to the Nile Valley, and gave access, across the Eastern Desert, to the Red Sea and its ports, facilitating trade with the East.Less
This chapter places transport in Roman Egypt into its physical context, discussing the geography and topography of the Nile Valley, Fayum, and desert regions. It studies both the literary and papyrological evidence for this, discussing roads and canals, and the problems for transport created by a hydraulic civilization: canals, irrigation channels, dykes, and embankments. It surveys the difficulties encountered by travellers and transporters, and the concern of the state in the upkeep of roads and routes. It considers the nature of desert travel, desert routes, and their transport infrastructure: these routes connected the oases of the Western Desert to the Nile Valley, and gave access, across the Eastern Desert, to the Red Sea and its ports, facilitating trade with the East.
David E. Mills
- Published in print:
- 2015
- Published Online:
- May 2015
- ISBN:
- 9789774166389
- eISBN:
- 9781617975882
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- American University in Cairo Press
- DOI:
- 10.5743/cairo/9789774166389.003.0002
- Subject:
- Political Science, Political Economy
Chapter one examines the geography, religious milieu, prior history, educational developments, and various cultural bonds of the Nile Valley, essentially those characteristics which Egyptians ...
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Chapter one examines the geography, religious milieu, prior history, educational developments, and various cultural bonds of the Nile Valley, essentially those characteristics which Egyptians believed argued for the existence of a single nation. These attributes of the Nile Valley did favor unification, but the British, Sudanese, or others desirous of an independent Sudan could also use these qualities for their case. For instance, the Nile River seemingly binds Sudanese and Egyptian regions, but cataracts have also traditionally divided the valley. Islam provides a modicum of religious uniformity, yet the prevalence of certain Sufi orders in the Sudan provides religious distinctiveness for the south. In the end, this chapter argues that historical and cultural commonalities did not definitively support the unity of the Nile Valley, necessitating that Egyptians strengthen economic bonds in pursuing their nationalist objective.Less
Chapter one examines the geography, religious milieu, prior history, educational developments, and various cultural bonds of the Nile Valley, essentially those characteristics which Egyptians believed argued for the existence of a single nation. These attributes of the Nile Valley did favor unification, but the British, Sudanese, or others desirous of an independent Sudan could also use these qualities for their case. For instance, the Nile River seemingly binds Sudanese and Egyptian regions, but cataracts have also traditionally divided the valley. Islam provides a modicum of religious uniformity, yet the prevalence of certain Sufi orders in the Sudan provides religious distinctiveness for the south. In the end, this chapter argues that historical and cultural commonalities did not definitively support the unity of the Nile Valley, necessitating that Egyptians strengthen economic bonds in pursuing their nationalist objective.
William, S.J. Harmless
- Published in print:
- 2004
- Published Online:
- July 2005
- ISBN:
- 9780195162233
- eISBN:
- 9780199835645
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/0195162234.003.0001
- Subject:
- Religion, History of Christianity
This chapter provides necessary background by examining the wider world from which the desert fathers and desert monasticism emerged. It concentrates on Roman Egypt, its geography, history, politics, ...
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This chapter provides necessary background by examining the wider world from which the desert fathers and desert monasticism emerged. It concentrates on Roman Egypt, its geography, history, politics, and religious milieu. This survey includes a look at ancient Alexandria as well as at life along the Nile Valley. It also examines three features of early Egyptian Christianity: the Alexandrian theological tradition (best embodied by Origen), the Melitian schism, and the early Alexandrian patriarchate.Less
This chapter provides necessary background by examining the wider world from which the desert fathers and desert monasticism emerged. It concentrates on Roman Egypt, its geography, history, politics, and religious milieu. This survey includes a look at ancient Alexandria as well as at life along the Nile Valley. It also examines three features of early Egyptian Christianity: the Alexandrian theological tradition (best embodied by Origen), the Melitian schism, and the early Alexandrian patriarchate.
David E. Mills
- Published in print:
- 2015
- Published Online:
- May 2015
- ISBN:
- 9789774166389
- eISBN:
- 9781617975882
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- American University in Cairo Press
- DOI:
- 10.5743/cairo/9789774166389.003.0005
- Subject:
- Political Science, Political Economy
This chapter examines the means of transportation between Egyptian and Sudanese regions, ranging from ground and riverine to maritime capabilities. Initial attention to rates, inspections, and ...
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This chapter examines the means of transportation between Egyptian and Sudanese regions, ranging from ground and riverine to maritime capabilities. Initial attention to rates, inspections, and customs procedures illustrates that both Egyptian and Condominium administrations were more interested in revenue production from transport facilities than encouraging the movement of men, materials, or manufactures along the Nile Valley. Furthermore, early transport infrastructure development in both regions focused on railroad and port facilities directed toward international markets—not binding the Nile Valley. The most glaring symbol of the division of the valley was the absence of a railroad connection between Upper Egypt and northern Sudan. By the mid-1930s Egyptian nationalists were certainly aware of transportation deficiencies, but this chapter argues they accomplished little that would alleviate these problems.Less
This chapter examines the means of transportation between Egyptian and Sudanese regions, ranging from ground and riverine to maritime capabilities. Initial attention to rates, inspections, and customs procedures illustrates that both Egyptian and Condominium administrations were more interested in revenue production from transport facilities than encouraging the movement of men, materials, or manufactures along the Nile Valley. Furthermore, early transport infrastructure development in both regions focused on railroad and port facilities directed toward international markets—not binding the Nile Valley. The most glaring symbol of the division of the valley was the absence of a railroad connection between Upper Egypt and northern Sudan. By the mid-1930s Egyptian nationalists were certainly aware of transportation deficiencies, but this chapter argues they accomplished little that would alleviate these problems.
David E. Mills
- Published in print:
- 2015
- Published Online:
- May 2015
- ISBN:
- 9789774166389
- eISBN:
- 9781617975882
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- American University in Cairo Press
- DOI:
- 10.5743/cairo/9789774166389.001.0001
- Subject:
- Political Science, Political Economy
Dividing the Nile offers a new perspective on Anglo-Egyptian rule in the Sudan. Most scholarship has attributed Sudanese independence in 1956 to British dominance of the Condominium, historical ...
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Dividing the Nile offers a new perspective on Anglo-Egyptian rule in the Sudan. Most scholarship has attributed Sudanese independence in 1956 to British dominance of the Condominium, historical animosity toward Egypt, or the emergence of Sudanese nationalism. Dividing the Nile counters that Egyptian entrepreneurs failed to develop a united economy or shared economic interests, guaranteeing Egypt's ‘loss’ of the Sudan. It argues that British dominance of the Condominium may have stymied initial Egyptian efforts, but that after the First World War Egypt became increasingly interested in and capable of economic ventures in the Sudan. However, early Egyptian financial assistance and the seemingly successful resolution of Nile water resources by the latter 1920s had actually divided the regions. With the signing of the 1936 Anglo-Egyptian Treaty and the easing of Depression-era conditions, Egyptians finally began concerted efforts to promote commerce and to acquire Sudanese lands. Egyptian entrepreneurs were never able to overcome British officials’ opposition to irrigated agricultural schemes in the Sudan, and merchants made inroads only in very limited local markets and only when international competitors were temporarily restricted. Solid Sudanese economic bonds to global markets that had been established in the first forty years of the Condominium administration could not be undone in its last decade and a half of existence. Egyptian nationalists had simply missed opportunities of aligning their economic future with that of their Sudanese brethren, resulting ultimately in two independent nations.Less
Dividing the Nile offers a new perspective on Anglo-Egyptian rule in the Sudan. Most scholarship has attributed Sudanese independence in 1956 to British dominance of the Condominium, historical animosity toward Egypt, or the emergence of Sudanese nationalism. Dividing the Nile counters that Egyptian entrepreneurs failed to develop a united economy or shared economic interests, guaranteeing Egypt's ‘loss’ of the Sudan. It argues that British dominance of the Condominium may have stymied initial Egyptian efforts, but that after the First World War Egypt became increasingly interested in and capable of economic ventures in the Sudan. However, early Egyptian financial assistance and the seemingly successful resolution of Nile water resources by the latter 1920s had actually divided the regions. With the signing of the 1936 Anglo-Egyptian Treaty and the easing of Depression-era conditions, Egyptians finally began concerted efforts to promote commerce and to acquire Sudanese lands. Egyptian entrepreneurs were never able to overcome British officials’ opposition to irrigated agricultural schemes in the Sudan, and merchants made inroads only in very limited local markets and only when international competitors were temporarily restricted. Solid Sudanese economic bonds to global markets that had been established in the first forty years of the Condominium administration could not be undone in its last decade and a half of existence. Egyptian nationalists had simply missed opportunities of aligning their economic future with that of their Sudanese brethren, resulting ultimately in two independent nations.
George Hatke
- Published in print:
- 2013
- Published Online:
- March 2016
- ISBN:
- 9780814760666
- eISBN:
- 9780814762783
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- NYU Press
- DOI:
- 10.18574/nyu/9780814760666.001.0001
- Subject:
- History, Ancient History / Archaeology
This book assembles and analyzes the textual and archaeological evidence of interaction between Nubia and the Ethiopian kingdom of Aksum, focusing primarily on the fourth century CE. Although ancient ...
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This book assembles and analyzes the textual and archaeological evidence of interaction between Nubia and the Ethiopian kingdom of Aksum, focusing primarily on the fourth century CE. Although ancient Nubia and Ethiopia have been the subject of a growing number of studies in recent years, little attention has been given to contact between these two regions. This book argues that ancient Northeast Africa cannot be treated as a unified area politically, economically, or culturally. Rather, Nubia and Ethiopia developed within very different regional spheres of interaction, as a result of which the Nubian kingdom of Kush came to focus its energies on the Nile Valley, relying on this as its main route of contact with the outside world, while Aksum was oriented towards the Red Sea and Arabia. In this way Aksum and Kush coexisted in peace for most of their history, and such contact as they maintained with each other was limited to small-scale commerce. Only in the fourth century CE did Aksum take up arms against Kush, and even then the conflict seems to have been related mainly to security issues on Aksum's western frontier. Although Aksum never managed to hold onto Kush for long, much less dealt the final death-blow to the Nubian kingdom, as is often believed, claims to Kush continued to play a role in Aksumite royal ideology as late as the sixth century. This book examines the extent to which relations between two ancient African states were influenced by warfare, commerce, and political fictions.Less
This book assembles and analyzes the textual and archaeological evidence of interaction between Nubia and the Ethiopian kingdom of Aksum, focusing primarily on the fourth century CE. Although ancient Nubia and Ethiopia have been the subject of a growing number of studies in recent years, little attention has been given to contact between these two regions. This book argues that ancient Northeast Africa cannot be treated as a unified area politically, economically, or culturally. Rather, Nubia and Ethiopia developed within very different regional spheres of interaction, as a result of which the Nubian kingdom of Kush came to focus its energies on the Nile Valley, relying on this as its main route of contact with the outside world, while Aksum was oriented towards the Red Sea and Arabia. In this way Aksum and Kush coexisted in peace for most of their history, and such contact as they maintained with each other was limited to small-scale commerce. Only in the fourth century CE did Aksum take up arms against Kush, and even then the conflict seems to have been related mainly to security issues on Aksum's western frontier. Although Aksum never managed to hold onto Kush for long, much less dealt the final death-blow to the Nubian kingdom, as is often believed, claims to Kush continued to play a role in Aksumite royal ideology as late as the sixth century. This book examines the extent to which relations between two ancient African states were influenced by warfare, commerce, and political fictions.
Susan Walker
- Published in print:
- 2006
- Published Online:
- January 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780199297375
- eISBN:
- 9780191708978
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199297375.003.0012
- Subject:
- Classical Studies, World History: BCE to 500CE
About one thousand mummy portraits have survived from Roman Egypt. They constitute a unique record in colour of a group of individuals, many resident in the towns and villages of the Fayum, but ...
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About one thousand mummy portraits have survived from Roman Egypt. They constitute a unique record in colour of a group of individuals, many resident in the towns and villages of the Fayum, but others living in the settlements of the Nile Valley and even on the Mediterranean littoral. This chapter explores the changes in representation of these persons in mummy portraits of the later 3rd and 4th centuries ad, when the educated elite of Hellenic cultural affiliation were concentrated in settlements in the Nile valley.Less
About one thousand mummy portraits have survived from Roman Egypt. They constitute a unique record in colour of a group of individuals, many resident in the towns and villages of the Fayum, but others living in the settlements of the Nile Valley and even on the Mediterranean littoral. This chapter explores the changes in representation of these persons in mummy portraits of the later 3rd and 4th centuries ad, when the educated elite of Hellenic cultural affiliation were concentrated in settlements in the Nile valley.
David Sims and Timothy Mitchell
- Published in print:
- 2015
- Published Online:
- January 2016
- ISBN:
- 9789774166686
- eISBN:
- 9781617976544
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- American University in Cairo Press
- DOI:
- 10.5743/cairo/9789774166686.003.0002
- Subject:
- Sociology, Urban and Rural Studies
This chapter rapidly reviews the roll-out of various schemes to develop Egypt’s desert for agriculture, urban development, tourism and industry/mines from 1952–2014. It shows an increasing emphasis ...
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This chapter rapidly reviews the roll-out of various schemes to develop Egypt’s desert for agriculture, urban development, tourism and industry/mines from 1952–2014. It shows an increasing emphasis of splashy megaprojects and the need to shift millions of inhabitants out of the Nile Valley.Less
This chapter rapidly reviews the roll-out of various schemes to develop Egypt’s desert for agriculture, urban development, tourism and industry/mines from 1952–2014. It shows an increasing emphasis of splashy megaprojects and the need to shift millions of inhabitants out of the Nile Valley.
Gawdat Gabra and Hany N. Takla (eds)
- Published in print:
- 2010
- Published Online:
- September 2011
- ISBN:
- 9789774163111
- eISBN:
- 9781617970481
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- American University in Cairo Press
- DOI:
- 10.5743/cairo/9789774163111.001.0001
- Subject:
- Religion, History of Christianity
Christianity and monasticism have flourished in Upper Egypt from as early as the fourth century until the present day. The contributors to this volume, international specialists in Coptology, examine ...
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Christianity and monasticism have flourished in Upper Egypt from as early as the fourth century until the present day. The contributors to this volume, international specialists in Coptology, examine various aspects of Coptic civilization along the Nile Valley, from Nag Hammadi (associated with the famous discovery of Gnostic papyri), through Luxor and Coptos, and south to Esna, over the past 1700 years, looking at Coptic religious history, tradition, language, heritage, and material culture in the region through texts, art, architecture, and archaeology.Less
Christianity and monasticism have flourished in Upper Egypt from as early as the fourth century until the present day. The contributors to this volume, international specialists in Coptology, examine various aspects of Coptic civilization along the Nile Valley, from Nag Hammadi (associated with the famous discovery of Gnostic papyri), through Luxor and Coptos, and south to Esna, over the past 1700 years, looking at Coptic religious history, tradition, language, heritage, and material culture in the region through texts, art, architecture, and archaeology.
Gawdat Gabra and Hany N. Takla (eds)
- Published in print:
- 2008
- Published Online:
- September 2011
- ISBN:
- 9789774161223
- eISBN:
- 9781617970450
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- American University in Cairo Press
- DOI:
- 10.5743/cairo/9789774161223.001.0001
- Subject:
- Religion, History of Christianity
Christianity and monasticism have flourished along the Nile Valley in the Sohag region of Upper Egypt from as early as the 4th century until the present day. Chapters examine various aspects of ...
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Christianity and monasticism have flourished along the Nile Valley in the Sohag region of Upper Egypt from as early as the 4th century until the present day. Chapters examine various aspects of Coptic civilization in the Upper Egyptian governorate of Sohag over the past 1700 years. Many of the studies center on the person and legacy of the great Coptic saint, Shenoute the Archimandrite (348–466 ce), looking at his preserved writings, his life, his place in Pachomian monasticism, his relations with the patriarchs in Alexandria, and the life in his monastic system. Other studies deal with the art, architecture, and archaeology of the two great monasteries that he founded, and the archaeological and artistic heritage of the region.Less
Christianity and monasticism have flourished along the Nile Valley in the Sohag region of Upper Egypt from as early as the 4th century until the present day. Chapters examine various aspects of Coptic civilization in the Upper Egyptian governorate of Sohag over the past 1700 years. Many of the studies center on the person and legacy of the great Coptic saint, Shenoute the Archimandrite (348–466 ce), looking at his preserved writings, his life, his place in Pachomian monasticism, his relations with the patriarchs in Alexandria, and the life in his monastic system. Other studies deal with the art, architecture, and archaeology of the two great monasteries that he founded, and the archaeological and artistic heritage of the region.
Robert B. Jackson
- Published in print:
- 2002
- Published Online:
- October 2013
- ISBN:
- 9780300088564
- eISBN:
- 9780300129519
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Yale University Press
- DOI:
- 10.12987/yale/9780300088564.003.0011
- Subject:
- History, Ancient History / Archaeology
This chapter discusses the Small Oasis, a single region constituted by the two modern oases of Farafra and Bahariya. Farafra's ancient history is still somewhat of a mystery. Although archaeologists ...
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This chapter discusses the Small Oasis, a single region constituted by the two modern oases of Farafra and Bahariya. Farafra's ancient history is still somewhat of a mystery. Although archaeologists have yet to discover any artifacts dating from the Pharaonic period in the oasis, several ancient texts record that Farafra's inhabitants maintained at least limited commercial relations with neighboring oases and the Nile Valley as far back as the Fifth dynasty. In addition to the Darb el-Farafra, which joins Farafra with Dakhleh Oasis to the south, other routes connect Farafra with Bahariya, Siwa, Assiut, and Libya. In addition to the caravan route connecting Bahariya with Farafra, three other important routes entered the oasis, from the Nile Valley, the Fayoum, and Siwa Oasis. Although scholars have not surveyed these routes carefully, there is little doubt that all were closely guarded and patrolled, especially during the late Roman period.Less
This chapter discusses the Small Oasis, a single region constituted by the two modern oases of Farafra and Bahariya. Farafra's ancient history is still somewhat of a mystery. Although archaeologists have yet to discover any artifacts dating from the Pharaonic period in the oasis, several ancient texts record that Farafra's inhabitants maintained at least limited commercial relations with neighboring oases and the Nile Valley as far back as the Fifth dynasty. In addition to the Darb el-Farafra, which joins Farafra with Dakhleh Oasis to the south, other routes connect Farafra with Bahariya, Siwa, Assiut, and Libya. In addition to the caravan route connecting Bahariya with Farafra, three other important routes entered the oasis, from the Nile Valley, the Fayoum, and Siwa Oasis. Although scholars have not surveyed these routes carefully, there is little doubt that all were closely guarded and patrolled, especially during the late Roman period.
George Hatke
- Published in print:
- 2013
- Published Online:
- March 2016
- ISBN:
- 9780814760666
- eISBN:
- 9780814762783
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- NYU Press
- DOI:
- 10.18574/nyu/9780814760666.003.0001
- Subject:
- History, Ancient History / Archaeology
This book explores the influence of warfare, commerce, and political fictions on the relations between two ancient African states, Nubia and the Ethiopian kingdom of Aksum. Focusing primarily on the ...
More
This book explores the influence of warfare, commerce, and political fictions on the relations between two ancient African states, Nubia and the Ethiopian kingdom of Aksum. Focusing primarily on the fourth century CE, it considers how the contact between Nubia and Ethiopia developed within very different regional spheres of interaction. Based on this interaction, the book argues that ancient Northeast Africa cannot be treated as a unified area politically, economically, or culturally. It also suggests that the seemingly weak ties between Aksum and Nubia can be attributed to the geographical orientation of the Ethiopian Highlands and the middle Nile Valley. The book examines how Aksum and the Nubian kingdom of Kush coexisted in peace for most of their history before Aksum took up arms against the latter. This introductory chapter discusses evidence of Ethiopian–Nubian contact before the first century CE.Less
This book explores the influence of warfare, commerce, and political fictions on the relations between two ancient African states, Nubia and the Ethiopian kingdom of Aksum. Focusing primarily on the fourth century CE, it considers how the contact between Nubia and Ethiopia developed within very different regional spheres of interaction. Based on this interaction, the book argues that ancient Northeast Africa cannot be treated as a unified area politically, economically, or culturally. It also suggests that the seemingly weak ties between Aksum and Nubia can be attributed to the geographical orientation of the Ethiopian Highlands and the middle Nile Valley. The book examines how Aksum and the Nubian kingdom of Kush coexisted in peace for most of their history before Aksum took up arms against the latter. This introductory chapter discusses evidence of Ethiopian–Nubian contact before the first century CE.
David Sims and Timothy Mitchell
- Published in print:
- 2015
- Published Online:
- January 2016
- ISBN:
- 9789774166686
- eISBN:
- 9781617976544
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- American University in Cairo Press
- DOI:
- 10.5743/cairo/9789774166686.003.0007
- Subject:
- Sociology, Urban and Rural Studies
This chapter addresses Egypt’s demographics and internal migration. It looks at the government’s long-promoted strategy of moving people out of the crowded Nile Valley and into the desert, analyses ...
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This chapter addresses Egypt’s demographics and internal migration. It looks at the government’s long-promoted strategy of moving people out of the crowded Nile Valley and into the desert, analyses population figures, and concludes that the strategy has failed dismally.Less
This chapter addresses Egypt’s demographics and internal migration. It looks at the government’s long-promoted strategy of moving people out of the crowded Nile Valley and into the desert, analyses population figures, and concludes that the strategy has failed dismally.
Robert B. Jackson
- Published in print:
- 2002
- Published Online:
- October 2013
- ISBN:
- 9780300088564
- eISBN:
- 9780300129519
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Yale University Press
- DOI:
- 10.12987/yale/9780300088564.003.0006
- Subject:
- History, Ancient History / Archaeology
This chapter discusses how four major Roman roads crossed the Eastern Desert to link the Red Sea with the Nile Valley, and carried the wealth of India and Africa from Red Sea ports to the great ...
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This chapter discusses how four major Roman roads crossed the Eastern Desert to link the Red Sea with the Nile Valley, and carried the wealth of India and Africa from Red Sea ports to the great emporium at Coptos. The exact course of the Via Hadriana was unmapped until June 1996, when two American researchers succeeded in tracing its route from the Nile Valley to the Red Sea coast. Long before the arrival of the Romans and for centuries after their departure, the scenic Myos Hormos Road between the Red Sea and the Nile served as a vital artery through the Eastern Desert. Researchers began examining the Marsa Nakkari–Edfu route only recently, and little definitive information is available. Although the existence of the Berenike–Coptos road has been known to modern scholars for many years, it has only recently been thoroughly explored and surveyed.Less
This chapter discusses how four major Roman roads crossed the Eastern Desert to link the Red Sea with the Nile Valley, and carried the wealth of India and Africa from Red Sea ports to the great emporium at Coptos. The exact course of the Via Hadriana was unmapped until June 1996, when two American researchers succeeded in tracing its route from the Nile Valley to the Red Sea coast. Long before the arrival of the Romans and for centuries after their departure, the scenic Myos Hormos Road between the Red Sea and the Nile served as a vital artery through the Eastern Desert. Researchers began examining the Marsa Nakkari–Edfu route only recently, and little definitive information is available. Although the existence of the Berenike–Coptos road has been known to modern scholars for many years, it has only recently been thoroughly explored and surveyed.
Hany Takla
Gawdat Gabra (ed.)
- Published in print:
- 2013
- Published Online:
- September 2014
- ISBN:
- 9789774165610
- eISBN:
- 9781617975424
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- American University in Cairo Press
- DOI:
- 10.5743/cairo/9789774165610.001.0001
- Subject:
- History, History of Religion
Christianity and monasticism have flourished along the Nile Valley in the Aswan region of Upper Egypt and in what was once Nubia, from as early as the fourth century until the present day. The ...
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Christianity and monasticism have flourished along the Nile Valley in the Aswan region of Upper Egypt and in what was once Nubia, from as early as the fourth century until the present day. The contributors to this volume, international specialists in Coptology from around the world, examine various aspects of Coptic civilization in Aswan and Nubia over the past centuries. The complexity of Christian identity in Nubia, as distinct from Egypt, is examined in the context of church ritual and architecture. Many of the studies explore Coptic material culture: inscriptions, art, architecture, and archaeology; and language and literature. The archaeological and artistic heritage of monastic sites in Edfu, Aswan, Makuria, and Kom Ombo are highlighted, attesting to their important legacies in the region.Less
Christianity and monasticism have flourished along the Nile Valley in the Aswan region of Upper Egypt and in what was once Nubia, from as early as the fourth century until the present day. The contributors to this volume, international specialists in Coptology from around the world, examine various aspects of Coptic civilization in Aswan and Nubia over the past centuries. The complexity of Christian identity in Nubia, as distinct from Egypt, is examined in the context of church ritual and architecture. Many of the studies explore Coptic material culture: inscriptions, art, architecture, and archaeology; and language and literature. The archaeological and artistic heritage of monastic sites in Edfu, Aswan, Makuria, and Kom Ombo are highlighted, attesting to their important legacies in the region.
George Hatke
- Published in print:
- 2013
- Published Online:
- March 2016
- ISBN:
- 9780814760666
- eISBN:
- 9780814762783
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- NYU Press
- DOI:
- 10.18574/nyu/9780814760666.003.0002
- Subject:
- History, Ancient History / Archaeology
This chapter explores the question of Aksumite trade with Nubia during the period spanning the first and third centuries CE. It suggests that, despite the expansion of international trade during the ...
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This chapter explores the question of Aksumite trade with Nubia during the period spanning the first and third centuries CE. It suggests that, despite the expansion of international trade during the Roman period, Aksum and Kush did not grow closer and instead had minimal contact. As far as long-distance trade is concerned, the economies of Kush and Aksum operated not very differently but independently of each other. The economy of Kush was intimately bound to the Nile Valley, the main route linking Nubia to Egypt. Aksum depended on agriculture in the Ethiopian Highlands, but its main outlet to the outside world was the Red Sea. This chapter also considers the extent to which Kush and Aksum maintained peaceful trade relations during the period.Less
This chapter explores the question of Aksumite trade with Nubia during the period spanning the first and third centuries CE. It suggests that, despite the expansion of international trade during the Roman period, Aksum and Kush did not grow closer and instead had minimal contact. As far as long-distance trade is concerned, the economies of Kush and Aksum operated not very differently but independently of each other. The economy of Kush was intimately bound to the Nile Valley, the main route linking Nubia to Egypt. Aksum depended on agriculture in the Ethiopian Highlands, but its main outlet to the outside world was the Red Sea. This chapter also considers the extent to which Kush and Aksum maintained peaceful trade relations during the period.
Robert R. Bianchi
- Published in print:
- 2019
- Published Online:
- February 2019
- ISBN:
- 9780190915285
- eISBN:
- 9780190915315
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/oso/9780190915285.003.0009
- Subject:
- Political Science, International Relations and Politics
China’s misgivings toward Egypt flow from an awareness of the vulnerability of its military rulers. For Egyptians, the Arab Spring replaced a hated dictator with an even more ruthless tyrant, ...
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China’s misgivings toward Egypt flow from an awareness of the vulnerability of its military rulers. For Egyptians, the Arab Spring replaced a hated dictator with an even more ruthless tyrant, creating the expectation that another revolt was just a matter of time. Egypt has few assets to recommend it as a Silk Road partner. It is in perpetual debt with declining diplomatic influence—especially as China develops multiple routes to bypass the costly Suez Canal. Geopolitically, Egypt is unstable and marginalized. Economically, it seems like a bottomless pit that no single donor can rescue. Religiously, it has crushed all hopes for a liberal Islamic future, allowing extremists to fill the vacuum. The more Cairo presses Beijing for larger investments, the more the Chinese back away—convinced that the country is ruled by a frightened and greedy clique intent on wringing as much profit as possible from foreigners and Egyptians alike.Less
China’s misgivings toward Egypt flow from an awareness of the vulnerability of its military rulers. For Egyptians, the Arab Spring replaced a hated dictator with an even more ruthless tyrant, creating the expectation that another revolt was just a matter of time. Egypt has few assets to recommend it as a Silk Road partner. It is in perpetual debt with declining diplomatic influence—especially as China develops multiple routes to bypass the costly Suez Canal. Geopolitically, Egypt is unstable and marginalized. Economically, it seems like a bottomless pit that no single donor can rescue. Religiously, it has crushed all hopes for a liberal Islamic future, allowing extremists to fill the vacuum. The more Cairo presses Beijing for larger investments, the more the Chinese back away—convinced that the country is ruled by a frightened and greedy clique intent on wringing as much profit as possible from foreigners and Egyptians alike.
