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Kush Conquers Egypt — Reading Comprehension

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This reading passage explores the fascinating period when the Kingdom of Kush, located in Nubia south of Egypt, conquered Egypt and established the 25th Dynasty. Students will learn about the rise of Kushite power, the reign of King Piye, and the cultural and political impacts of Kushite rule over Egypt. The passage discusses archaeological and textual evidence, the blending of Nubian and Egyptian traditions, and the long-lasting significance of this era. Activities include a glossary, multiple-choice quiz, writing prompts, and graphic organizers to analyze cause and effect and chronological developments. This resource comes with a read aloud audio option and a complete Spanish translation, making it accessible and engaging for diverse learners. Aligned with CA HSS 6.2, CCSS.RH.6-8.1, and CCSS.WHST.6-8.2, the passage encourages students to read like historians and connect ancient events to larger historical themes.

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"Nubian pyramids of Meroe in 1821" by Cailliaud, Frédéric in 1826 / Wikimedia Commons

The Kingdom of Kush was a powerful ancient civilization located in Nubia, south of Egypt. In the 8th century BCE, Kush rose to great prominence by conquering Egypt and establishing the 25th Dynasty, also known as the “Kushite Dynasty.” This era marked a remarkable time when rulers from a different land controlled the legendary civilization of the pharaohs.

The story of Kush’s conquest begins with King Piye, who ruled from his capital at Napata. Around 750 BCE, Egypt was divided into several rival kingdoms. Piye saw an opportunity to unite the region under his authority. He led a successful military campaign into Egypt, as described in the famous “Stele of Piye,” a stone monument that records his victories and demands for loyalty. Archaeologists have found evidence of Kushite control in art, statues, and temples built during this period. Piye respected Egyptian traditions, presenting himself as a true pharaoh and restoring ancient religious practices in the temples of Thebes.

Under Kushite rule, Egypt experienced both change and continuity. The Kushite pharaohs, including Piye’s brother Shabaka and his successors, built pyramids in Nubia that resembled Egyptian styles but had unique features. They revived the worship of the god Amun and supported the powerful priesthood at Thebes. At the same time, they brought Nubian traditions and art into Egyptian society. This blend is seen in royal statues and inscriptions that combine Egyptian and Nubian features. The Kushite rulers tried to strengthen Egypt against external threats, especially from the growing Assyrian Empire to the northeast.

The 25th Dynasty eventually faced challenges from the Assyrians, who invaded Egypt around 671 BCE. The Kushite pharaohs retreated back to Nubia, but their impact on Egyptian history remained significant. They had restored unity to Egypt after centuries of division and left behind monuments and texts that celebrated their rule. Today, the pyramids of Nubia and the records of Piye’s victories help scholars understand this period of cross-cultural exchange.

The Kushite conquest of Egypt shows how geography, military strategy, and cultural exchange shape history. It connects to broader themes in ancient history, such as the rise and fall of empires and the blending of civilizations.

Interesting Fact: The pyramids of Nubia built by Kushite rulers are smaller and steeper than those in Egypt, and there are more of them in Sudan than in all of Egypt!

Who was the first Kushite ruler of Egypt?

PiyeTutankhamunShabakaRamses II

Where was the Kingdom of Kush located?

South of Egypt in NubiaIn MesopotamiaIn the Nile DeltaWest of the Sahara

What is the Stele of Piye?

A stone recording Piye's victoriesA Nubian pyramidA temple in ThebesAn Assyrian statue

Why did Piye invade Egypt?

Egypt was divided and weakHe wanted goldHe was forced by AssyriansTo escape Nubia

How did Kushite rulers show respect for Egyptian culture?

Restored temples and followed traditionsDestroyed monumentsBanned Egyptian religionIgnored Egyptian customs

What did the Kushite pharaohs try to protect Egypt from?

Assyrian invasionGreek tradersRoman armiesPersian kings