jjares reviewed The Egyptian Pyramids: The Origins and History of the World's Most Famous Monume on + 3263 more book reviews
This is a very interesting story of how the amazing Pyramids came to be. The story starts more than 4500 years ago. The Pyramids are so old, that even in ancient times, people journeyed to see these marvels. But the reasons the Pyramids were built was likewise interesting.
Of course, they were built to show the power of the Egyptians on the throne at the time. But this author also states that, besides being used for religious and funerary rites, there was a practical purpose. It took many people to farm and produce enough food for all of Egypt. However, while the Nile River flooded its banks, the farmers were idle for months. Rulers kept them busy by employing them on building projects. They received wine and beer three times a day, they could avoid taxes during their employment, and they received a salary. It was a win-win for everyone involved.
The photos and computer-generated pictures included in this story are wonderful for explaining the text. The monuments gradually became more refined and well-built. Of course, the apex of the building surge was the Pyramid at Giza. Others were built later but did not match or exceed that pyramid. Unfortunately, later builders plundered the limestone used for previous edifices, thus allowing the inner (less long-lasting) rock to show and slowly decompose those Pyramids. Great reading.
Of course, they were built to show the power of the Egyptians on the throne at the time. But this author also states that, besides being used for religious and funerary rites, there was a practical purpose. It took many people to farm and produce enough food for all of Egypt. However, while the Nile River flooded its banks, the farmers were idle for months. Rulers kept them busy by employing them on building projects. They received wine and beer three times a day, they could avoid taxes during their employment, and they received a salary. It was a win-win for everyone involved.
The photos and computer-generated pictures included in this story are wonderful for explaining the text. The monuments gradually became more refined and well-built. Of course, the apex of the building surge was the Pyramid at Giza. Others were built later but did not match or exceed that pyramid. Unfortunately, later builders plundered the limestone used for previous edifices, thus allowing the inner (less long-lasting) rock to show and slowly decompose those Pyramids. Great reading.
