The political structure of ancient Egypt included a theocratic government. The empire was divided into 23 satrapies, also called nomes, in which each satrap had its own ruler that was appointed by the more powerful king, or pharaoh, who was seen as a living god. Government officials who appointed the pharaoh included viziers, tax collectors, army commanders, the chief treasurer, and the minister of public works.
Taxes were paid mainly on goods and labor. Egyptians were drafted into armies, or were forced to join in order to pay off labor taxes. These draftees, along with slaves and mercenaries, were often used for war. The majority of Egyptians were peasants who had no say in government.
Laws involved punishments suitable for committed crimes. If one were to commit a crime, he or she would disgrace his or her entire family. Punishments ranged from caning to different types of executions.
Taxes were paid mainly on goods and labor. Egyptians were drafted into armies, or were forced to join in order to pay off labor taxes. These draftees, along with slaves and mercenaries, were often used for war. The majority of Egyptians were peasants who had no say in government.
Laws involved punishments suitable for committed crimes. If one were to commit a crime, he or she would disgrace his or her entire family. Punishments ranged from caning to different types of executions.