PTOLEMAIC PERIOD Meaning and
Definition
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The Ptolemaic period refers to a specific era in ancient Egypt's history, lasting approximately from 323 BCE to 30 BCE. Named after the ruling dynasty of Ptolemy, who were descendants of one of Alexander the Great's generals, this period is characterized by the Ptolemies' control and administration of Egypt as Hellenistic rulers. The Ptolemaic period began after the demise of the Achaemenid Persian Empire, when Alexander the Great conquered Egypt in 332 BCE.
During the Ptolemaic period, Egypt experienced significant cultural and political changes as it underwent a process of Hellenization. The Ptolemies actively promoted Greek culture and language, although they also respected and allowed the Egyptian civilization to continue its existence alongside these Hellenistic influences.
Notable features of the Ptolemaic period include the flourishing of Alexandria as a cosmopolitan center, with its renowned library and museum, as well as advancements in science, mathematics, and astronomy. Additionally, this period witnessed the reign of famous pharaohs such as Cleopatra VII, who rose to prominence and engaged in political alliances with Rome.
The Ptolemaic period eventually came to an end when Egypt was annexed by the Roman Empire under the rule of Augustus. The transition marked the shift from the Ptolemaic era to the Roman period, officially bringing an end to the ancient Egyptian civilization as an independent kingdom.
Etymology of PTOLEMAIC PERIOD
The term "Ptolemaic period" derives from the Greek word "Ptolemaioi", which means "belonging to Ptolemy". It refers to the ruling dynasty that was established by Ptolemy I Soter, one of Alexander the Great's generals, in Egypt after Alexander's death in 323 BCE. Ptolemy I Soter became the Pharaoh of Egypt and his descendants ruled the country until the death of Cleopatra VII in 30 BCE. Thus, the term "Ptolemaic period" refers to the era of ancient Egyptian history that encompasses the reign of the Ptolemaic dynasty.
