The histories of Kush and Egypt are intertwined with each other because they were reliant on each other. How did their interdependence work, and why did each take control of the other in turn?

The Kush traded gold for grain but eventually Egypt attacked and took over part of Kush for the gold and land. When the Kush moved to Meroe it had many iron deposits which made stronger weapons than the Egyptians bronze weapons and they took back their land and took control of Egypt.

The interdependence between Kush and Egypt can be attributed to a variety of factors, including trade, cultural exchange, military alliances, and political dynamics. Understanding their relationship requires examining different historical periods.

1. Ancient Egypt and Nubia (before 1500 BCE):
- Initially, Egypt and Nubia (the region where Kush was located) had limited contact and appear to have coexisted without significant dependence.
- However, around 2500 BCE, Egypt extended its influence into Nubia for economic reasons, particularly the exploitation of Nubian gold mines.
- As a result, Nubia became economically reliant on Egypt, primarily through trade and resource extraction.

2. Egyptian Domination and Kushite Independence (1500-800 BCE):
- During the New Kingdom of Egypt (1550-1070 BCE), Egypt exerted control over Nubia, integrating it into their empire as a Province.
- Egyptian rulers built forts, temples, and administrated Nubia to maintain their authority.
- However, Egypt's control weakened during the Third Intermediate Period (1069-664 BCE), paving the way for Nubia's independence as the Kingdom of Kush.

3. Kushite Domination and Egyptian Influence (800-350 BCE):
- Following its independence, Kush became a regional power that influenced Egypt.
- Kushite pharaohs conquered Egypt in the late 8th century BCE, establishing the Twenty-Fifth Dynasty (also known as the Nubian Dynasty).
- During this period, the Kushite rulers adopted Egyptian cultural practices and assimilated into Egyptian society.

4. Assyrian and Persian Influence (664-350 BCE):
- The Assyrian Empire conquered Egypt in 664 BCE and pushed the Kushites out of Egypt, ending their direct control.
- However, Kush maintained strong ties with Egypt, particularly through trade and cultural exchange, as they shared a common border.

In summary, their interdependence stemmed from economic, political, and cultural factors. Egypt initially dominated Nubia due to its resource wealth, while Kushite control over Egypt later developed through military conquest. However, both civilizations continued to interact due to their geographic proximity and shared interests, even when one did not directly control the other.

They were neighbors and the strength of each grew and diminished over the years.

Thanks Ms. Sue!