After Alexander the Great died in 323 BC, Ptolemy I Soter, one of Alexander's most trusted generals, seized control of Egypt and declared himself its ruler. He established the Ptolemaic Kingdom, a Hellenistic dynasty that ruled Egypt for nearly 300 years. Ptolemy I's descendants continued to rule Egypt, with notable figures like Cleopatra VII, the last Ptolemaic ruler, becoming famous in history.
The Ptolemaic dynasty played a significant role in shaping Egyptian culture and history, blending Greek and Egyptian traditions. They built new cities, patronized the arts, and fostered economic prosperity. Their reign saw the rise of Alexandria, which became a prominent center of learning and trade.
