At first
At first, Egypt consisted of small villages along the Nile River, which gradually coalesced into confederations, kingdoms, and eventually two distinct kingdoms: Upper Egypt and Lower Egypt. Around 3200 BC, King Menes of Upper Egypt conquered Lower Egypt, unifying the two kingdoms. The pharaoh, as supreme ruler, held powers as administrator of Egypt; Chief of the army; Supreme Judge and High Priest. The pharaonic monarchy was seen as divine, with the pharaoh being considered the son of the gods, which sacralized his power. The centralization of power in the hands of the pharaoh helped maintain order and resolve social conflicts. All land belonged to the pharaoh, and the palace was the political and administrative center. To support the government and large constructions, taxes were levied on non-privileged groups... Did you know?