Six things ancient Egypt taught the world
Before the world had paper, calendars or surgery, Egypt was already there.
Many things we still use every day began in ancient Egypt.
1. The solar calendar
The Egyptians divided the year into 365 days, based on the cycle of the sun and the annual Nile flood.
2. Papyrus
Made from the reeds of the Nile, papyrus was the first paper-like writing material in history.
3. Medicine and surgery
The Edwin Smith Papyrus, a surgical text from about 1600 BC, describes the examination and treatment of injuries.
4. Mathematics
The Rhind Mathematical Papyrus records problems in arithmetic, fractions and geometry.
5. Building in stone
The Step Pyramid of Djoser, designed by Imhotep, is often described as the oldest large-scale stone building in the world.
6. Kohl and cosmetics
Eye kohl was worn by men and women alike, for beauty and to protect the eyes from the sun.
The cover image is an artistic illustration.
