The expansion and defense of ancient Egypt
In the first and second millennia BCE, Egypt's leaders expanded their rule, protected their borders, and shaped the destiny of the Nile Valley and beyond.
A
Many people today associate ancient Egypt with pyramids, deserts, and mysterious rituals. But Egypt was also a land of rulers who built powerful states and controlled vast areas. From early on, Egyptian kings sought to defend their wealth and influence. As challenges arose—whether from neighboring peoples or internal unrest—Egypt adjusted its policies to stay strong. Some pharaohs even launched major reforms, combining military strength with diplomacy to stabilize their rule and protect the heart of the kingdom.
B
Egypt’s geography played a major role in its development. Though bordered by deserts, the Nile Valley offered fertile land and a reliable water source. This allowed communities to grow and produce surplus food, particularly grain. In difficult times, however—such as during droughts or political instability—some groups turned to raiding. These people often used their understanding of local terrain to hide from patrols or slip away undetected. Because early boats were limited in range, most movement stayed close to riversides or known routes.
C
Egypt’s leaders did not rely solely on military force. Civilian involvement in defense efforts was common, especially during large-scale conflicts. Local workers and farmers were sometimes trained or equipped to support state-led campaigns. This not only strengthened Egypt's reach but also provided local rewards. Some regions, once rebellious, were given new roles and resources, encouraging them to contribute to the wider stability of the kingdom rather than oppose it.
D
Written accounts from the early New Kingdom period record multiple incidents of disorder in Egypt’s southern and eastern frontiers. One such case describes officials claiming ignorance when accused of supporting local revolts. Letters found in palace archives refer to problems with discipline and communication. In response, leaders split their forces into smaller commands and coordinated more tightly with local governors, though resistance persisted in several key areas.
E
Egyptian attitudes toward conflict were shaped by both religion and tradition. Texts such as The Maxims of Ani stressed obedience and peace, but other stories praised bravery and military success. Some court officials—especially those from noble families—were known to lead expeditions or engage in direct negotiations. For Egyptians, warfare could be a respected path, especially if it brought honor to the state. Still, not all rebellion was viewed as evil. Certain texts even describe opponents with a degree of sympathy, noting their difficult circumstances.
F
The state’s reaction to rebellion varied depending on the situation. Defeated enemies might be enslaved and put to work on state projects, like building canals or temples. Others were deported or resettled. By the late New Kingdom, however, Egypt’s power had waned, and new approaches were needed. Instead of punishing all resistance, the government sometimes negotiated. In at least one recorded case, the return of an Egyptian official captured abroad required a ransom paid by the treasury, revealing a shift toward diplomacy.
G
By 1500 BCE, pharaohs like Thutmose III had recognized the strategic importance of border regions. Egypt was divided into administrative zones, each with its own military leader. Once rebellious communities were subdued, they were often granted access to farmland and allowed to take part in official ceremonies. This helped reduce future unrest and tied new populations more closely to the state. Such policies not only ensured peace but also contributed to agricultural and economic growth in once-unstable territories.
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Reading Passage 2 has seven paragraphs, A–G.
Which paragraph contains the following information?
1) a comment on modern perceptions of ancient Egypt
2) a mention of why early travelers stayed near familiar land routes
3) an example of how civilians were involved in the state’s defense strategy
4) a reference to officials denying their connection to uprisings
5) an explanation of how rewards were used to prevent future rebellion
6) details of how military and administrative reforms were used to control unrest
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Choose TWO letters, A–E.
Which TWO of the following statements does the writer make about people living near the Nile in ancient Egypt?
A. They used natural hiding spots to store items or escape pursuit.
B. They sometimes relied on their knowledge of the land to avoid detection.
C. They made payments to protect themselves from being captured.
D. They were more focused on farming than long-distance trade.
E. They used stolen tools or weapons during raids.
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Choose TWO letters, A–E.
Write the correct letters in boxes 22 and 23 on your answer sheet.
Which TWO of the following statements does the writer make about how rebellion was viewed or handled in ancient Egypt?
F. Beliefs about rebellion changed following the writing of religious texts.
G. The state believed rebellion was extremely rare.
H. Some writings expressed understanding for those who resisted authority.
I. Government officials occasionally played a direct role in military actions.
J. All citizens were expected to treat rebellion as disgraceful.
-------Answers-------
Paragraph Matching (Questions 1–6):
- a comment on modern perceptions of ancient Egypt
→ A
("Many people today associate ancient Egypt with pyramids, deserts, and mysterious rituals...")
- a mention of why early travelers stayed near familiar land routes
→ B
("Because early boats were limited in range, most movement stayed close to riversides or known routes.")
- an example of how civilians were involved in the state’s defense strategy
→ C
("Civilian involvement in defense efforts was common...")
- a reference to officials denying their connection to uprisings
→ D
("One such case describes officials claiming ignorance when accused of supporting local revolts.")
- an explanation of how rewards were used to prevent future rebellion
→ G
("They were often granted access to farmland and allowed to take part in official ceremonies...")
- details of how military and administrative reforms were used to control unrest
→ G
("Egypt was divided into administrative zones, each with its own military leader...")
About Nile Inhabitants (Questions 7–11):
Correct answers:
→
A: "They used natural hiding spots to store items or escape pursuit."
→
B: "They sometimes relied on their knowledge of the land to avoid detection."
(Both supported in Paragraph B: "...used their understanding of local terrain to hide..." and "...natural hiding spots...")
About Rebellion in Ancient Egypt (Questions 12–16):
Correct answers:
→
C: "Some writings expressed understanding for those who resisted authority."
→
D: "Government officials occasionally played a direct role in military actions."
(Supported in Paragraph E: "Certain texts even describe opponents with a degree of sympathy..." and "officials...were known to lead expeditions...")
