Hello, I'm a specialist in ancient history and I would be delighted to provide you with a detailed answer regarding the duration of ancient Egypt.

Ancient Egypt is one of the most fascinating civilizations in human history, known for its remarkable achievements in art, architecture, and science. The history of ancient Egypt can be divided into several periods, each characterized by its own unique cultural and political developments.

The Predynastic Period of Egypt, which is considered the earliest phase of Egyptian civilization, lasted from approximately 6000 BCE to 3100 BCE. During this time, the Nile River Valley saw the emergence of small city-states and the development of agriculture, which laid the foundation for the rise of a unified state.

The Early Dynastic Period began around 3100 BCE with the unification of Upper and Lower Egypt under the first Pharaoh, Narmer (also known as Menes). This period marked the beginning of the Pharaoh's rule and the establishment of a centralized government.

The Old Kingdom, which is often referred to as the "Age of the Pyramids," lasted from approximately 2686 BCE to 2181 BCE. This era was characterized by the construction of the Great Pyramids at Giza and the development of a complex administrative system.

Following the Old Kingdom was the First Intermediate Period, a time of political instability and decentralization that lasted from around 2181 BCE to 2055 BCE.

The Middle Kingdom, as you mentioned, began around 2040 BCE and ended around 1640 BCE. This period saw the reestablishment of a centralized government and the expansion of Egyptian influence into Nubia and the Levant.

The Second Intermediate Period, which is often associated with the rule of the Hyksos, lasted from around 1640 BCE to 1532 BCE. The Hyksos were a foreign dynasty that ruled over Egypt during this time, but they were eventually expelled by the native Egyptian rulers who established the New Kingdom.

The New Kingdom, which is considered the height of Egyptian power and influence, lasted from approximately 1539 BCE to 1075 BCE. This period was marked by military conquests, the construction of grand temples, and the development of a rich artistic and cultural heritage.

After the New Kingdom, Egypt entered the Third Intermediate Period, which was characterized by political fragmentation and foreign influence. This period lasted from around 1075 BCE to 664 BCE.

The Late Period of ancient Egypt began in 664 BCE and lasted until 332 BCE, when Alexander the Great conquered Egypt. This era was marked by a resurgence of native Egyptian culture and the construction of new temples and monuments.

Finally, the Ptolemaic Period, which was the last phase of ancient Egyptian history, lasted from 332 BCE to 30 BCE. This period began with the rule of Ptolemy I, a general of Alexander the Great, and ended with the Roman conquest of Egypt.

In summary, ancient Egypt's history spans over three thousand years, from the early emergence of civilization around 6000 BCE to the Roman conquest in 30 BCE. The civilization went through various periods of unity and decentralization, experiencing both great achievements and periods of decline.

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Egypt's first civilization lasted roughly 550 years. The next major period known as the Middle Kingdom begins around 2040 BC and ends around 1640 BC. Egypt at this time was ruled from Thebes. The Middle Kingdom ended with the invasions by the Hyksos.Jun 9, 2016read more >>