About this season
This three-part special tells the story of the Egyptian empire from its beginning in 1560 B.C. to its collapse in 1080 B.C. Interviews with scholars and dramatic re-creations bring the story to life.
Episodes (3)
1. The Warrior Pharaohs
Aired 4 November 2001 • 55 min
The Ahmose dynasty of pharaohs would rise to defeat Egypt's occupiers to the north and south. In the process they created a New Kingdom, one that would far surpass any previous Egyptian civilization. Hatshepsut, the first female pharaoh, is one of the Ahmose rulers and the first recorded female ruler in history.
2. Pharaohs of the Sun
Aired 11 November 2001 • 55 min
Art, technology, and new ideas enhance the wealth of the new empire, and diplomacy and military conquest ensure a firm grip on power. However, sun-worshiping pharaohs such as the royal couple Akhenaten and Nefertiti, and the inexperienced boy-king Tutankhamen, take the empire into uncharted waters.
3. The Last Great Pharaoh
Aired 18 November 2001 • 55 min
Under the 67-year reign of Ramesses the Great, the Egyptian New Kingdom is at its greatest height. Resources flood into Egypt, a new capital is built, and The House of Life becomes the intellectual center for the empire. However, after Ramesses dies, the demise of the empire is at hand.