Archaeological evidence of Egyptian prehistory and the Early Dynastic Period has shown much interaction between Egypt and Nubia (and farther south), and Egypt and southwest Asia. Interaction probably took several different forms, such as migrations of people, inter-marriage, movements of goods and materials, and movements of ideas - all difficult issues to sort out for explanations of changes in the past. Thus, there is no simple answer for “Who were the Egyptians who founded the early state and created Egyptian civilization?” This question was first asked by archaeologists working in Egypt in the early 20*h century and continued to be debated by others in the late 20*h century, including African-Americans.
Physical anthropology does not classify human remains by “race,” and there are no good criteria, observable or genetic, that can be used to separate all individuals of one “race” from another. Labeling the ancient Egyptians as “white” (Caucasoid) or “black” (Negroid) is therefore not useful. In Egyptian texts from later periods foreigners from countries and regions outside of Egypt are named, and in art they are depicted with different styles of dress, hair, beards, etc. Thus, it is perhaps best to consider who the Dynastic Egyptians were from their own perspective, which was cultural: peoples of the lower Nile Valley under the political authority of the pharaonic state who probably spoke a single language. The ancient Egyptians were adapted, both culturally and physically, for life in this unique environment, with its great agricultural potential. The longevity of pharaonic culture is testament to its successful adaptation there - as well as its ability to adapt to changing conditions through time.
World History
