Answer: pharaoh
Some extra relevant information:
In ancient Egyptian kingdoms, the ownership of everything was primarily held by the pharaoh, who was considered the divine ruler and the absolute authority. The pharaoh was not only the political leader but also the religious and economic leader of the kingdom. As the owner of everything, the pharaoh possessed all the land, wealth, and resources within the kingdom.
The pharaoh’s ownership extended to several facets of ancient Egyptian society. Firstly, the pharaoh owned all the agricultural land in Egypt. The fertile soil along the Nile River allowed for prosperous farming, and the pharaoh controlled the distribution of land to the nobles and the temples. The pharaoh was responsible for implementing and collecting taxes on the land, ensuring a steady supply of resources for the kingdom.
Secondly, the pharaoh owned vast treasures, including precious metals, gemstones, and valuable artifacts. These treasures were acquired through conquest, trade, tribute from vassal states, or as offerings from the general population. The pharaoh’s wealth was used to maintain a luxurious lifestyle, fund monumental construction projects, and support the temples and religious rituals.
Moreover, the pharaoh claimed ownership over the labor force in ancient Egypt. The workforce comprised not only slaves and prisoners of war but also skilled artisans, farmers, and merchants. The pharaoh assigned laborers to various projects, such as building massive temples, pyramids, and infrastructure, ensuring that the kingdom prospered under their rule.
Although the pharaoh owned everything in theory, it is important to note that there was a hierarchical structure in society, with varying degrees of ownership and wealth among different classes. The nobles, priests, and high-ranking officials held significant power and wealth, often granted to them by the pharaoh. However, their ownership was ultimately subject to the pharaoh’s authority.
In conclusion, in ancient Egyptian kingdoms, the pharaoh held ownership over everything, including land, wealth, resources, and labor. Their role as the divine ruler and central authority allowed them to exercise control and maintain a stable and prosperous kingdom.