Menes << mee nees >> is thought to have been the first ruler of a unified Egypt. His rule began about 3100 B.C. He established the first Egyptian dynasty (family of rulers). Menes is probably another name for King Aha or Hor-Aha. Egyptian kings had several names. Some scholars have suggested that Menes is an epithet (a descriptive term used in place of a name) rather than a proper name. Menes means one who endures.
According to tradition, Menes was the ruler of the kingdom of Upper Egypt, south of the Nile Delta. He was probably the successor of King Narmer. Menes conquered the kingdom of Lower Egypt, in the delta region, and united the two kingdoms. He is credited with founding the capital city of Memphis south of present-day Cairo at the southern edge of the delta.
Different accounts state that Menes ruled for 30 years or for some 60 years. During his reign, he established cities and constructed fortresses to protect Egypt’s borders. He also ensured the smooth running of Egypt’s government system and fought against the Nubians , a people who lived to the south.
Ancient historians recorded various legends about Menes. For example, the Egyptian priest and chronicler Manetho wrote that a hippopotamus killed the king. After Menes died, he was buried at Abydos, Egypt, in a large, mud-brick tomb. Young people and lions were sacrificed and buried beside the tomb so they could accompany Menes into the afterlife.
See also Egypt, Ancient (History) .
