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Hyksos;
15th Dynasty of Egypt

Ancient Egyptian: hega-khase



Headdress of a Hyksos princess
KINGS OF 15th DYNASTY
Years unknown
Sheshi ?
Yakubher Meruserre ?
Khyan Seuserenre ?
Apepi 1 Auserre ?
Apepi 2 Aqenenre ?


Ruling dynasty in ancient Egypt, of foreign origin. The Hyksos is ranked as the 15 Dynasty.
They took control over Memphis, the capital of Egypt in 1650 BCE, and founded the 15th dynasty (1650- 1550 BCE), which ran parallel to the 16th dynasty, a dynasty of vassal chiefs under Hyksos' control. The Hyksos established a stronghold in Avaris, from where they could administer Egypt and collect taxes.
The rule of the Hyksos resulted in a period of peace and prosperity. Egyptian religion was respected, and Egyptian culture survived well, even though the culture of the Hyksos was introduced in the Nile Delta area. Practically nothing remains of their monuments, but the Hyksos came to have lasting influence on Egyptian military technique, with the introduction of horses and chariots.
The origins of the Hyksos are unclear, but they were probably from Palestine and Syria. Evidence clearly indicate that they were a Semitic people, and with a nomadic life style.
The revolt against the Hyksos emerged in Thebes, under the leadership of Ahmose 1, a vassal king from the delta region, who managed to crush an alliance that existed between the Hyksos and the Cushites in Nubia.

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By: Tore Kjeilen