Social Classes Flashcards
Egyptian economy
The economy of Egypt was, it is fair to say, very dependent on the regular flooding of the Nile – in other words, like today, weather an geography played a vital role in their existence.
Payment
Never really use “money” (E.G.- Coins). Instead, they would use produce (in terms of weighs and measures) to barter (trade) for desired items.
How was each class payed?
The lowest workers were paid in bread and mead (beer made of honey)
Higher wages used bread and beer as a weight standard, and were paid in bread, beer, grains, meat, fruits and vegetables, and amounts of cloth - all considered the necessities of life.
Jobs in Ancient Egypt in order of pay
Priests (doctor) Scribe (accountant) Soldier Metalworker Cloth maker Boat builder & potter Farmers
Social Stratification
Pharaoh Vizier (Prime Minister) Nobles, priests, officials and scribes Soldiers Artisans Peasants and merchants
Why were priests powerful?
They controlled the temples of the gods.
How did the priests live?
The priests of ancient Egypt lived a solitary but wealthy life. They had no contact to other people besides in festivals or sacrifices.
