Egyptian history is one of the oldest and most fascinating in the world, dating back over 5,000 years. It is characterized by the rise and fall of powerful dynasties, monumental architecture like the Pyramids of Giza, and a rich tapestry of culture and religion centered around gods such as Ra and Osiris. The civilization thrived along the banks of the Nile River, which provided fertile land for agriculture and trade routes. Key periods include the Old Kingdom, known for its pyramids, the Middle Kingdom, marked by literature and art, and the New Kingdom, which saw the expansion of Egypt's empire and the reign of famous pharaohs like Tutankhamun and Ramses II.