
The History of Egypt Podcast
Self-Made King (First Intermediate Period 04)
Aug 16, 2024
Intef I, a powerful lord of Waset/Thebes/Luxor, emerges as a key figure during a tumultuous phase in ancient Egypt. He discusses his remarkable self-promotion and military expansion beyond established norms. Tensions rise as Intef isolates and confronts loyalist governors nearby. The conversation also delves into the historical context of the Mehsah Hui soldiers and the geopolitical landscape of the Kenner Bend, revealing how personal ambitions intertwine with the broader struggle for power during the First Intermediate Period.
01:07:27
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Quick takeaways
- The rise of Intef I as the Great Overlord of the South represents a pivotal challenge to the established northern Egyptian authority around 2055 BCE.
- The inscriptions left by the Mehsah Hui troops illustrate the military prowess and allegiances during a politically tumultuous period in ancient Egypt.
Deep dives
The Military Presence of the Mehsah Hui
Around 4000 years ago, a group of skilled Egyptian warriors known as Mehsah Hui, or assault troops, marched through rocky desert outcroppings, providing protection and support in a hostile environment. This moment in history captures the essence of their journey as they left carvings on sandstone cliffs, signifying their presence and allegiance to a commander. This commander, a self-proclaimed king named Angtifi, sought to maintain power over the region of Nekin. The inscriptions left by the soldiers serve as evidence of their military might and the transient nature of power during a time of political upheaval.
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