Ancient Egyptian civilization began around 3500 BCE and lasted over 3000 years. Life revolved around the fertile land provided by seasonal flooding of the Nile River. Society was strictly hierarchical, with peasants and slaves at the bottom, and the powerful pharaoh at the top. Religion also played a central role, with beliefs centered around various gods like Ra, the sun god. Daily life involved activities like farming, artisan work, and preparation for an afterlife through mummification and burial goods.