The "second intermediate period" refers to a significant era in the ancient history of Egypt that lasted from around 1650 BCE to 1550 BCE. It is a chronological phase that came after the end of the Middle Kingdom and before the New Kingdom. The term "second intermediate period" is primarily used by Egyptologists and historians to classify this specific period in Egyptian history.
During the second intermediate period, Egypt experienced a considerable political upheaval and instability. The country was divided and ruled by different local dynasties, often referred to as the "rulers of the Hyksos." These foreign invaders came from Canaan and other eastern regions, and their rule marked a distinct departure from the traditional Egyptian customs and governance.
The second intermediate period witnessed a decline in central authority, with the regional rulers gaining more autonomy. These rulers and their dynasties controlled various parts of Egypt, leading to a fragmented political landscape. Additionally, the country faced significant economic challenges, including the disruption of trade routes and the decline of the Nile flood patterns.
The end of the second intermediate period came with the establishment of the New Kingdom, which marked a resurgence of centralized power and stability in Egypt. The pharaohs of the New Kingdom sought to restore Egyptian traditions, expelling the foreign invaders and unifying the country under their rule.
In summary, the second intermediate period refers to the historical phase in ancient Egypt characterized by political fragmentation, foreign occupation, and economic challenges.
