Dashed left edge = started before this timeline ·
Dashed right edge = still ongoing
Events in 1650 BC – 1640 BC 1
2055 BC – 1650 BCThe Middle Kingdom -- classical EgyptThe Middle Kingdom (2055-1650 BC) is the classical age of Egyptian literature, art and administration -- the period when Egyptian culture reaches its most refined expression. Mentuhotep II reunifies Egypt after the First Intermediate Period (c.2055 BC). The Twelfth Dynasty (1985-1795 BC) under the Amenemhat and Senusret pharaohs builds a powerful centralised state, conquers Nubia, trades with the Levant and Punt, and produces the masterpieces of Egyptian literature. The Middle Kingdom ends with the Hyksos invasion (c.1650 BC), which introduces the horse and chariot to Egypt.