HISET Social Studies Practice 2026 - Free HISET Social Studies Practice Questions and Study Guide

The Third Intermediate Period is marked by a significant decline in Egyptian power, characterized by political fragmentation and foreign invasions. This era followed the New Kingdom, which was the height of Egypt's power, cultural achievements, and territorial expansion. By contrast, the Third Intermediate Period saw Egypt divided into smaller kingdoms, with rising influences from Nubians, Libyans, and later Assyrians, leading to weakened central authority and diminished control over its territories.

During this time, the once unified administration fragmented, resulting in a lack of strong leadership and military prowess which had previously established Egypt as a dominant power in the region. This period is often seen distinctively as one where Egypt's social structures, economy, and military strength were considerably undermined, paving the way for eventual foreign domination. The other periods mentioned, such as the Middle Kingdom and New Kingdom, are associated with strong centralization and expansion, while the First Intermediate Period reflects a time of internal struggle yet retains some strength compared to the fragmentation seen in the Third Intermediate Period.