Farmers:
- Cultivation and Harvesting: Farmers played a crucial role in cultivating the fertile Nile Valley and other arable land. They grew a variety of crops such as wheat, barley, lentils, onions, and vegetables.
- Irrigation Systems: Farmers constructed and managed extensive irrigation systems to control the flow of water from the Nile River to their fields. These systems allowed them to cultivate crops during the dry seasons.
- Plowing and Planting: They used plows pulled by oxen to prepare the soil for planting. Farmers planted seeds and monitored their growth, ensuring proper watering and protection from pests.
- Harvesting: When the crops were ready, farmers used sickles to harvest them. They would then gather and store the harvested produce in granaries for later use.
- Livestock: Some farmers also raised livestock such as cattle, goats, and poultry for meat, milk, and other products.
- Religious Rituals: Farmers participated in religious rituals related to agriculture, including festivals honoring gods associated with fertility and the Nile inundation.
Slaves:
- Labor Force: Slaves constituted a significant portion of the workforce in ancient Egypt, especially during the New Kingdom period (around 1550-1070 BCE). They were often captives from conquered territories or individuals born into slavery.
- Agricultural Work: Many slaves were employed in agriculture, working alongside farmers in the fields. They performed various tasks such as plowing, planting, weeding, harvesting, and transporting produce.
- Construction: Slaves were also involved in large-scale construction projects, including building pyramids, temples, and other monumental structures.
- Domestic Service: Some slaves worked in households, performing tasks like cooking, cleaning, and taking care of children.
- Craftsmanship: Skilled slaves might engage in specialized crafts such as pottery, weaving, and metalworking. Their products contributed to the economy and were sometimes traded with other regions.
- Mining and Quarrying: Slaves were used for extracting minerals and stones from mines and quarries, which were essential for construction and making tools or jewelry.
- Educational and Administrative Roles: Some slaves with exceptional abilities could rise through the ranks and even hold positions as scribes or administrators in government or temples.
Despite the harsh conditions of slavery, some slaves could gain a certain degree of social mobility if they demonstrated exceptional talents or served their masters well. However, the institution of slavery was a pervasive aspect of ancient Egyptian society and contributed to its economic and social dynamics.