Menes was an ancient Egyptian pharaoh, often credited with unifying Upper and Lower Egypt around 3100 BCE. He is considered the first ruler of the First Dynasty of Egypt and is a significant figure in Egyptian history. Menes is sometimes identified with the historical figure Narmer, who is depicted in the famous Narmer Palette. His reign marked the beginning of the Early Dynastic Period, which laid the foundation for the development of Egyptian civilization. Menes is also associated with the establishment of the capital city, Memphis, which became a political and cultural center for centuries.