History of Egypt From 330 B.C. To the Present Time, Volume 10 (of 12)

H istory of Egypt From 330 B.C. To the Present Time, Volume 10 (of 12)" by S. Rappoport is a historical account written in the late 19th century. This volume primarily discusses the period following Alexander the Great's conquest of Egypt, focusing on the Ptolemaic era and the subsequent foreign influences on the region. The text delves into the cultural and political ramifications of Greek and Roman dominance in Egyptian history, offering a detailed narrative of Egypt's changing power dynamics. The opening of the text provides a context for understanding Egypt's transition from ancient independence to foreign rule, highlighting the key figures and events during this transformative period. Rappoport references the decline of native Egyptian power, marked by the rising influence of the Macedonian Ptolemies, who maintained a Greek rule while adopting elements of Egyptian culture. The author discusses the interplay between Hellenism and Egyptian religion, emphasizing the unique cultural amalgamation occurring in places like Alexandria, which became a hub for knowledge and trade under Ptolemaic governance. This initial portion sets up a comprehensive exploration of the complex and layered history of Egypt, inviting readers to consider its rich cultural legacy amidst numerous conquerors.The way for the Grecian conquest of Egypt had been preparing for many years. Ever since the memorable march of Xenophon, who led, in the face of unknown difficulties, ten thousand Greeks across Asia Minor, the Greek statesman had suspected that the Hellenic soldier was capable of undreamed possibilities. When the young Alexander, succeeding his father Philip on the throne of Macedonia, got himself appointed general by the chief of the Greek states, and marched against Darius Codomanus, King of Persia, at the head of the allied armies, it was not difficult to foresee the result. The Greeks had learned the weakness of the Persians by having been so often hired to fight for them. For a century past, every Persian army had had a body of ten or twenty thou-