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Chaos

Joann Fletcher explains how ancient Egypt's story fits together. She explores how the Pyramid Age ended in catastrophe and Egypt was plunged into the dark ages and civil war.

In the second episode, Joann explores how the Pyramid Age ended in catastrophe. In one of Saqqara's last pyramid complexes, Joann uncovers evidence of famine as the young Egyptian state suffered a worsening climate and political upheaval. With depleted coffers, Egypt was plunged into the dark ages and civil war. With the land fractured into many small states, Joann tells the story of small-town leaders rising through the ranks.

In a little-known tomb in Thebes, Joann uncovers stories of warriors who fought in the bloody battle which eventually would mark the reunification of Egypt. This burial represents the world's first recorded war cemetery and the rise of Thebes. The country was reborn, resuming grand building projects for Egypt's mighty kings and bejewelled queens.

Joann reveals how settlers known as the Hyksos tried to infiltrate the government and take the throne. But their rule was short-lived as they were ousted by southern rulers who laid the groundwork for Egypt's largest empire.

58 minutes

Credits

Role Contributor
Presenter Joann Fletcher
Writer Joann Fletcher
Series Producer Caterina Turroni
Director Ian A Hunt
Producer Ian A Hunt
Director Sophie Elwin Harris
Producer Sophie Elwin Harris
Executive Producer Gillian Mosely
Executive Producer Bill Locke
Production Manager Chrissie Barlow
Production Coordinator Katie King
Assistant Producer Georgina Stewart
Researcher Harpreet Gill
Production Company Lion Television

Broadcasts

Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ News: Egypt Timeline

A chronology of key events in Egypt.