7th Dynasty

Fact 1 on 7th Dynasty:

The Old Kingdom had ended with the ruling monarchy embroiled in debt, conspiracies and murders.
 

Fact 2 on 7th Dynasty:

The government was run by a small elite segment distinguished by wealth, family or military powers - similar to an Oligarchy.
 

Fact 3 on 7th Dynasty:

Egypt was unstable,  weak and divided. There was a breakdown of central government and hierarchic structure, existing alliances ended, powerful men vied for power and there was conflict between Upper and Lower Egypt.
 

Fact 4 on 7th Dynasty:

In this chaotic environment one minority group after another gained ascendancy only to be overthrown by others.
 

Fact 5 on 7th Dynasty:

According to Manetho, an ancient Egyptian historian, this 'royal line' was actually a series of "Seventy rulers in seventy days". Manetho's interpretation reflects the fast changing environment of continuous power struggles, rather than an accurate record of events.
 

Fact 6 on 7th Dynasty:

The list of rulers detailed below is incomplete. It contains few names that are known only by some surviving decrees that were issued by the rulers. A list of kings was also found at Abydos on the walls of the Temple of Seti 1.
 

Fact 7 on 7th Dynasty:

The main power base of the rulers was located in Memphis, in the Nile Delta region of Lower Egypt (see map).