| National Factbook |
| Flag: |
|
| Nation Name: |
Egypt |
| Leader Name: |
Yahia |
| Currency: |
Egyptian Pound |
| National Animal: |
Golden eagle |
| History: |
Egypt's history is marked by several pivotal moments. It began with the unification of Upper and Lower Egypt around 3100 BCE by King Narmer (Menes), establishing the First Dynasty and a centralized state with Memphis as its capital. The Age of the Pyramids, particularly the construction of the Great Pyramid of Giza under Pharaoh Khufu around 2580-2560 BCE, showcased the architectural prowess of the Old Kingdom. The Middle Kingdom (c. 2055-1650 BCE) followed, characterized by political stability and cultural flourishing, with Pharaoh Mentuhotep II reuniting Egypt and the emergence of notable literature like the "Tale of Sinuhe."
The Hyksos invasion around 1670 BCE introduced foreign rule during the Second Intermediate Period, bringing new technologies such as the horse-drawn chariot. The New Kingdom (c. 1550-1070 BCE) marked the peak of Egyptian power, with pharaohs like Hatshepsut, who expanded trade and commissioned monumental building projects, Akhenaten, known for introducing monotheism with the worship of Aten, and Ramses II, celebrated for military campaigns and the famous Battle of Kadesh.
The Amarna Period (c. 1353-1336 BCE) was marked by Akhenaten's radical changes in religion and art, but after his death, traditional polytheism was restored. Following the New Kingdom's decline, Egypt faced foreign invasions by the Assyrians and Persians, eventually falling to Alexander the Great in 332 BCE, which ushered in the Greco-Roman Period. The Ptolemaic Dynasty, founded by Ptolemy I, blended Greek and Egyptian cultures, with Cleopatra VII as its last pharaoh, famously engaging with Roman leaders Julius Caesar and Mark Antony.
The Arab conquest in 642 CE marked a significant cultural and religious shift, leading to the decline of ancient practices and the rise of Islamic civilization. Egypt became part of the Ottoman Empire in 1517, experiencing a mix of autonomy and central control. Finally, British occupation from 1882 to 1952 fueled nationalist movements that culminated in a revolution, resulting in the establishment of a republic. These moments encapsulate Egypt's rich and complex history, from its ancient civilizations to modern struggles for independence and identity. |
| Geography |
| Continent: |
Africa |
| Land Area: |
19,312.08 sq. km |
| Terrain: |
Egypt's terrain is dominated by vast desert landscapes, including the Sahara Desert to the west and the Eastern Desert along the Red Sea. A narrow strip of fertile land along the Nile River supports agriculture and civilization, while rugged mountains, particularly in the Sinai Peninsula, feature notable peaks like Mount Catherine. The Qattara Depression, one of Africa's lowest points, adds to the variety of the landscape, creating a striking contrast between arid deserts and lush river valleys. |
| Highest Peak: |
Mt. Catherine, 2,629 meters |
| Lowest Valley: |
Qattara Depression, -133 meters |
| Climate: |
Egypt has a desert climate characterized by hot, dry summers, where temperatures often exceed 40°C (104°F), and mild winters with daytime temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). Rainfall is minimal, averaging less than 25 mm (1 inch) annually, with slightly more precipitation in the coastal areas. Dust storms are common during the spring, which can affect visibility and air quality. Humidity levels are higher along the northern coast, while the interior regions are typically dry. This climate supports vast deserts and a narrow fertile strip along the Nile River, which is essential for agriculture. |
| People & Society |
| Population: |
506,269 people |
| Demonym: |
Egyptian |
| Demonym Plural: |
Egyptians |
| Ethnic Groups: |
Egyptians - 94.7%
Nubians - 3.0%
Bedouins - 2.3% |
| Languages: |
Arabic - 94.0%
English - 37.0%
French - 8.0% |
| Religions: |
Islam - 84.4%
Christianity - 13.6%
other - 2.0% |
| Health |
| Life Expectancy: |
70 years |
| Obesity: |
28.4% |
| Alcohol Users: |
11.5% |
| Tobacco Users: |
34.7% |
| Cannabis Users: |
5.3% |
| Hard Drug Users: |
16.7% |
| Economy |
| Description: |
Egypt's economy is diverse, relying on agriculture, industry, services, and tourism. Agriculture, mainly along the Nile, employs a significant portion of the population and includes crops like wheat and cotton. The industrial sector contributes to GDP, with petroleum and natural gas as major exports, alongside industries like textiles and food processing. The Suez Canal is a crucial maritime route that generates substantial revenue through tolls, making it a strategic economic asset.
The services sector, particularly tourism, plays a vital role, attracting millions to Egypt's historical sites, although it has faced challenges from political instability and global events like the COVID-19 pandemic. In recent years, the government has pursued economic reforms to attract foreign investment and improve infrastructure, while also addressing issues like high unemployment, inflation, and social inequality. Overall, Egypt aims to diversify and strengthen its economy for sustainable growth. |
| Average Yearly Income: |
$56.91 |
| Gross Domestic Product (GDP): |
$848,334,254.00 |
| GDP per Capita: |
$1,675.66 |
| Gross National Income (GNI): |
$643,707,795.00 |
| Industries: |
Egypt's industrial sector is a crucial part of its economy, significantly contributing to GDP and employment. The petroleum and natural gas industry stands out as one of Africa's leading producers, essential for export revenues and domestic energy needs. The textiles and apparel industry, rooted in Egypt's long history of cotton cultivation, produces high-quality textiles and garments for both local and international markets.
Food and beverage processing plays a vital role in transforming agricultural products into consumables, while the cement and construction materials industry supports ongoing infrastructure projects and urban development. The pharmaceutical sector is expanding to meet rising healthcare demands, producing a range of generic medications.
Additionally, the chemical industry, focusing on fertilizers and petrochemicals, is significant due to its agricultural connections. Mining is also growing, particularly with new gold discoveries, contributing to economic diversification. Egypt is investing in renewable energy, especially solar and wind power, to diversify its energy sources. Overall, the industrial sector combines traditional industries with emerging fields, reflecting Egypt's ongoing efforts to enhance productivity and attract foreign investment. |
| Military |
| History: |
Egypt has one of the largest militaries in the Middle East and Africa, consisting of the Army, Navy, and Air Force. The Navy secures maritime routes, while the Air Force operates advanced aircraft for defense and reconnaissance. The military plays a crucial role in countering extremist threats in the Sinai Peninsula and influences domestic politics and stability. Overall, Egypt's military is a key pillar of national security and regional strength. |
| Soldiers: |
0 |
| Tanks: |
0 |
| Aircraft: |
0 |
| Ships: |
0 |
| Missiles: |
0 |
| Nuclear Weapons: |
0 |
| Last Updated: 09/28/2024 04:51 am |
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