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Howard Carter and the Tomb of King Tut — Reading Comprehension

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This detailed history reading passage explores the remarkable discovery of King Tutankhamun's tomb by Howard Carter in 1922, providing insight into the world of ancient Egyptian archaeology. Students will learn about the challenges and significance of Carter's work, the advanced methods used, and the astonishing artifacts uncovered. The passage is designed to support critical thinking and historical analysis, using primary sources and academic vocabulary. Aligned with CA HSS 6.2.9 and CCSS RH.6-8.1, this resource includes a Spanish translation, read aloud audio, and activities such as a multiple-choice quiz, writing prompts, graphic organizers, and a timeline. This lesson helps students connect archaeological discoveries to broader themes in world history, such as social hierarchy, the role of geography, and the lasting impact of ancient civilizations.

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[Howard Carter, 1873-1939, with magnifying glass, leaning over mummy of King Tutankhamen as the first incision was made in the mummy wrappings, Feb. 1926].
Source: Library of Congress

Archaeologist Howard Carter became world-famous after he discovered the tomb of Tutankhamun, often called King Tut, in Egypt’s Valley of the Kings in 1922. This discovery was one of the most important in the history of archaeology and changed what historians knew about ancient Egypt’s pharaohs and their burial practices.

For years, Carter searched the Valley of the Kings, a royal cemetery on the west bank of the Nile River near Luxor. He worked under the patronage of Lord Carnarvon, who funded his work. Many experts believed all the major tombs had already been found. However, Carter remained convinced a hidden tomb still waited. He studied old tomb artifacts and early maps, noticing clues others had missed. On November 4, 1922, Carter’s team discovered a step cut into the rock. Further digging revealed a sealed doorway marked with the royal cartouche of Tutankhamun, a relatively unknown pharaoh who ruled during the 18th Dynasty (around 1332–1323 BCE).

When Carter and Lord Carnarvon entered the tomb on November 26, 1922, they saw dazzling treasures—golden statues, chariots, jewelry, and furniture—all untouched for over 3,000 years. The tomb’s four rooms were packed with more than 5,000 objects. Most remarkably, the sarcophagus and mummy of King Tut himself were found in the burial chamber. Carter’s detailed notes, photographs, and careful excavation methods became a model for scientific documentation in archaeology. Primary sources like Carter’s journals and Harry Burton’s photographs provide firsthand evidence of the tomb’s condition and contents.

The discovery of King Tut’s tomb had major effects. It taught historians about ancient Egyptian funerary rituals, social hierarchy, and daily life. The tomb’s art and objects show the power of the pharaoh and the skilled work of Egyptian craftsmen. Since the tomb was mostly intact, it offered a rare view into the beliefs and technology of the time. The global excitement sparked a renewed interest in Egyptology and inspired future archaeological research. Some people believed the tomb was “cursed” because several people involved died soon after its opening, but historians agree this was likely coincidence.

Howard Carter’s discovery connects to broader themes in world history, such as the importance of geography in ancient civilizations, the development of science and archaeology, and the impact of preserving cultural heritage for future generations.

Interesting Fact: The famous gold mask of King Tut, uncovered by Carter, remains one of the most recognized symbols of ancient Egypt around the world.

Who discovered King Tut’s tomb?

Howard CarterHarry BurtonLord CarnarvonJean-François Champollion

Where was King Tut’s tomb found?

Giza PlateauValley of the KingsAlexandriaCairo

In what year was the tomb discovered?

1912192219321942

Why was the tomb’s discovery significant?

It proved mummies were realIt showed ancient trade routesIt was mostly untouched, revealing many artifactsIt found the oldest pyramid

What did Carter do differently from earlier archaeologists?

Used careful documentationDestroyed artifactsIgnored local workersLeft tomb unopened

What caused excitement about ancient Egypt worldwide?

Discovery of King Tut’s tombBuilding new pyramidsFinding Roman coinsTranslating cuneiform