What is Ptolemaic Egypt known for?

The Ptolemaic period is known for social changes in Egypt, as Greek immigrants introduced a new language, religious pantheon, and culture. The Ptolemaic capital Alexandria became the premier city of the Hellenistic world, known for its Great Library and the Pharos lighthouse.

Why did Ptolemaic Egypt fall?

Due to anti-Greek rebellions, diminished military might, and economic troubles, Ptolemaic Egypt became increasingly reliant on Roman support, which eventually led to the Roman conquest of Egypt.

Ptolemaic Egypt Timeline

Definition

Ptolemaic Egypt existed between 323 and 30 BCE when Egypt was ruled by the Macedonian Ptolemaic dynasty. During the Ptolemaic period, Egyptian society changed as Greek immigrants introduced a new language, religious pantheon, and way of life to Egypt. The Ptolemaic capital Alexandria became the premier city of the Hellenistic world, known for its Great Library and the Pharos lighthouse.

More about: Ptolemaic Egypt

Timeline

323 BCE - 30 BCE
Egyptian art fuses with Greek styles during the Ptolemaic Dynasty.
323 BCE - 145 BCE
The Library of Alexandria flourishes under the patronage of the early Ptolemaic Dynasty of Egypt.
305 BCE - 30 BCE
The Ptolemaic Dynasty in Egypt.
274 BCE - 271 BCE
The first Syrian war, marking the beginning of the contest between the Ptolemies and the Seleucids for Phoenicia and Coele-Syria.
247 BCE
The Lighthouse of Alexandria (Pharos) is completed.
c. 205 BCE - c. 185 BCE
Upper Egypt and Lower Nubia secede from the Ptolemaic Kingdom with the support of Meroe. Two Egyptians, Horwennefer and his successor Ankhwennefer are declared as Pharaoh in the now independent territories.
c. 169 BCE
Invasion of Egypt by Antiochus IV.
145 BCE - 48 BCE
Library of Alexandria declines through lack of patronage by Ptolemaic Dynasty of Egypt.
30 BCE
Death of Cleopatra VII, end of the Ptolemaic Dynasty in Egypt.