Ancient History: Egypt : Population Growth , Famine, and the Fall of the Middle Kingdom

Study concepts, example questions & explanations for Ancient History: Egypt

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Example Questions

Example Question #1 : Population Growth , Famine, And The Fall Of The Middle Kingdom

Which circumstance most directly lead to the fall the Middle Kingdom?

Possible Answers:

Foreign invasions from the east decimated the population

Cultural decadence corrupted Egyptian institutions leading to a period of decline

Local governors pushing for more power caused untenable political instability leading to civil war and the kingdom's demise 

A series of despotic pharaohs created a sense of paranoia that swept through the Egyptian population and institutions

Severe droughts starved the population to death

Correct answer:

Local governors pushing for more power caused untenable political instability leading to civil war and the kingdom's demise 

Explanation:

The Middle Kingdom saw an increase in democratic practices compared with the Old Kingdom. While kings and royals retained power, nobles and civil servants became deputized and acquired great influence. These officials, known as viziers, eventually demanded more power leading to political instability and collapse.

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