Kingdom of Kush

ancient Africa · Nile River · powerful empire

Lasted over 1,000 years. The Kingdom of Kush was one of the longest-lasting civilizations in the ancient world, ruling the Nubian region from around 1070 BCE until around 350 CE.

Built impressive pyramids. The Kushites constructed their own pyramids, though smaller than Egypt's, to honor their kings and queens in a way that showed their own unique culture and beliefs.

Centered on the Nile. Kush's power came from controlling the fertile Nile Valley in what is now northern Sudan and southern Egypt, which gave them rich land for farming and trade.

Ruled Egypt once. At its height, Kush became so powerful that Kushite kings actually ruled Egypt itself for about 100 years during the 25th Dynasty, around 750 to 650 BCE.

Major trade hub. Kush controlled important trade routes that connected Africa, the Mediterranean, and the Red Sea, making them wealthy from buying and selling goods across the ancient world.