The kings ruled Ancient Egypt throughout most of its history. The Ancient Egyptians believe that each king is the god, Horus, in human form. They begin calling the king Pharoah sometime between the years 1554 and 1304 BC. The word Pharoah mean Great House in Egyptian. The king is born into his position. It passes from the previous king to the eldest son of the king's chief wife. If there are no sons, the position can be passed to daughters.
Kings are advised by Viziers. These are officials who are appointed by the King to help them run certain areas of the kingdom. They can act as mayors and tax collectors and judge for their areas. Other powerful officials include army commanders and local tax collectors. Since there was no money in Ancient Egypt, the government collected taxes from farmers by taking part of their crops. Skilled laborers use their goods or services to pay their taxes.
The kingdom is divided into 42 regions areas known as Nomes. Each province is governed by an official known as a Nomarch. The Nomarch is appointed by the King. Each Nome has a court, which is usually presided over by a Vizier. Crimes that carry a death sentence are decided by the King.
