The Cambridge History of Egypt offers the first comprehensive English-language treatment of Egyptian history through thirteen centuries, from the Arab conquest to the present day. The two-volume survey considers the political, socio-economic and cultural history of the world's oldest state, summarizing the debates and providing insight into current controversies. As today's Egypt reclaims a leading role in the Islamic, Arab and Afro-Asian worlds, the project stands as testimony to its complex and vibrant past. Volume 1 addresses the period from the Arab invasion in 640 to the Ottoman conquest in 1517. It opens with a discussion of the preceding centuries to illustrate the legacy of ancient Egypt, and then progresses chronologically according to the major dynastic episodes. Authors have been encouraged to address their topics in the light of new research. The combination of political history and contemporary theory will ensure its value as a reference and research tool. "It is a pleasure to crack the pages of The Cambridge History of Egypt, a new, long-overdue enterprise in a venerable series." The Historian "...the editor of this volume has delivered a work to which readers can turn with some confidence for the narrative backbone of Egyption history from the Arab conquest in the seventh century to the Ottoman conquest in the sixteenth..." Journal of Interdisciplinary History "All in all, the two volumes of The Cambridge History of Egypt are well edited, thoroughly documented, handsomely presented, and dignified by the research and writing of always a competent and in several instances brilliant scholars. Both volumes are aimed at a readership, whether general or specialized, that will hopefully take advantage of this ambitious and even quite monumental undertaking to deepen its appreciation of Egypt's historical grandeur." International Journal of African Historical Studies "The scope of this book, its content, and the information provided by the authors will make it an indispensable resource for students and teachers. And because of the inclusion of significant issues and controversies in the history of Egypt and its society and in providing a rich bibliography of primary sources and modern studies, this book will also become a valuable springboard for those who want to do research on Islamic Egypt...this volume is an impressive achievement...this book should have a lasting value." American Historical Review "...will stand as a basic resource on Egypt for at least a generation." Choice "The Cambridge History of Egypt is an excellent work, indispensable for research specialists and survey lectures alike. My hat is off to editor/author Petry and the other seventeen author for their accomplishment." Mesa Bulletin A comprehensive English-language treatment of Egyptian history for student and scholarly reference.