---
node: second_intermediate
type: period
slug: second_intermediate_period
title: "Second Intermediate Period"
lead: "The Second Intermediate Period (c. 1650–c. 1550 BC) was an era of division after the Middle Kingdom's decline, when the West Asian Hyksos ruled Lower Egypt from Avaris. Ahmose I expelled them c. 1550 BC and opened the New Kingdom."
published: 2026-07-10
updated: 2026-07-10
---

## Overview

In c. 1650–c. 1550 BC, Egypt fragmented after the decline of the Middle Kingdom, an era spanning the 13th–17th Dynasties. The Hyksos — the name means "rulers of foreign lands" — were of West Asian (Levantine) origin and ruled Lower Egypt as the 15th Dynasty from Avaris in the eastern Delta, while the 17th Dynasty at Thebes held Upper Egypt.

## Key developments

Under Hyksos rule, innovations were introduced or spread: the horse-drawn chariot, the composite bow, and improved bronze weaponry. Thebes eventually launched a war of liberation. The mummy of Seqenenre Taa bears violent head wounds, suggesting he died in battle or by execution; the fight then passed to Kamose.

## End and transition

Ahmose I completed the reconquest. He took Avaris, expelled the Hyksos c. 1550 BC, and founded the 18th Dynasty, opening the New Kingdom.