The Ptolemaic Dynasty was a Macedonian Greek royal family which ruled over Egypt after the death of Alexander the Great in 323 BC. This dynasty was founded by Ptolemy I Soter, one of Alexander's generals, and lasted until the death of Cleopatra VII in 30 BC, marking the end of Ancient Egyptian independence and the beginning of Roman Egypt.
After Alexander's death, his empire was divided among his generals, with Ptolemy I Soter taking control of Egypt. Ptolemy I established his capital at Alexandria, which became a significant cultural and economic center of the Hellenistic world. He proclaimed himself Pharaoh in 305 BC, adopting the traditional Egyptian royal titles and participating in the native religious rites to legitimize his rule. The Ptolemaic rulers were known for their efforts to blend Greek and Egyptian cultures, although they maintained Greek as the language of administration and culture.
The Ptolemaic Dynasty had a profound impact on Egyptian culture, introducing Greek language, architecture, and scientific knowledge. They built numerous temples and public works, often in a mix of Greek and Egyptian styles, like the Temple of Edfu. The famous Library of Alexandria, which was intended to house all the world's knowledge, was established during their rule.
The dynasty's power began to wane due to internal rivalries, external pressures from Seleucid and later Roman powers, and economic troubles. The death of Cleopatra VII and her son Caesarion marked the end of the dynasty, with Egypt becoming a province of the Roman Empire.
The Ptolemaic era left an indelible mark on Egyptian history, blending Hellenistic culture with Egyptian traditions, which can be seen in the art, architecture, and administrative systems of the time. Their rule is also remembered for significant contributions to science, literature, and the arts, although much of this was overshadowed by the political turmoil and the eventual fall of the dynasty.