The Third Intermediate Period of ancient Egypt, starting with the death of Ramesses XI in 1077 BCE, marked the end of the New Kingdom and preceded the Late Period. This era is characterized by political fragmentation and decline in international prestige.

During the 21st Dynasty, Egypt saw a split in power. Smendes I, ruling from Tanis, controlled Lower Egypt, while the High Priests of Amun in Thebes wielded significant influence over Middle and Upper Egypt.^[66] Despite appearances, this division was less severe due to the intertwined family connections between priests and pharaohs.

The 22nd Dynasty, founded by Shoshenq I around 945 BCE, initially brought stability. However, after Osorkon II's reign, the country effectively split, with Shoshenq III controlling Lower Egypt and Takelot II and Osorkon III ruling Middle and Upper Egypt. Thebes experienced a civil war, resolved in favor of Osorkon B, leading to the establishment of the 23rd Dynasty. This period was marked by further fragmentation and the rise of local city-states.

The Nubian kingdom exploited Egypt's division. The 25th Dynasty, established by Piye around 732 BCE, saw Nubian rulers extending their control over Egypt. This dynasty is noted for its construction projects and the restoration of temples across the Nile Valley.^[67] However, the increasing influence of Assyria over the region threatened Egypt's independence.

The Assyrian invasions between 670 and 663 BCE, due to Egypt's strategic importance and resources, especially timber for iron smelting, significantly weakened the country. Pharaohs Taharqa and Tantamani faced continuous conflict with Assyria, culminating in the sacking of Thebes and Memphis in 664 BCE, marking the end of Nubian rule over Egypt.^[68]

The Third Intermediate Period concluded with the rise of the 26th Dynasty under Psamtik I in 664 BCE, following Assyria's withdrawal and the defeat of Tantamani. Psamtik I unified Egypt, establishing control over Thebes, and initiated the Late Period of ancient Egypt. His reign brought stability and independence from Assyrian influence, laying the groundwork for the subsequent developments in Egyptian history.