Ptolemies
Ptolemies, the name of a line of Greek rulers of Egypt, 323 B.C-30 B.C. The dynasty was founded by Ptolemy I Soter (367?–283), a Macedonian general, soon after the death of Alexander the Great. Ptolemy established his capital at Alexandria and founded its library. Under the Ptolemies the city became a great center of learning. Besides Egypt, their kingdom at various times included Palestine, Cyprus, and Cyrenaica (eastern Libya).
The Ptolemies did much to promote commerce, agriculture, and industry. Although they gave high government positions only to their fellow Greeks, they respected the native gods and identified themselves with the ancient Pharaohs. In imitation of the Pharaohs, Ptolemy II (309–246) began the dynastic practice of brother-and-sister marriages.
During the later period, the Ptolemies were weakened by family feuds, native rebellions, and the growing power of Rome. Cleopatra VII (69–30) enlisted the aid of Julius Caesar in overthrowing her brother-husband Ptolemy XII. She planned to rule the Roman world with Mark Antony. After her death Egypt became a Roman province.