Egypt is known for its rich history and ancient civilization. It was home to one of the world's earliest advanced civilizations, the Ancient Egyptians, who built the iconic pyramids and the Sphinx in Giza around 2500 BC. Throughout its history, Egypt was ruled by pharaohs, then by various foreign powers, including Persians, Greeks, Romans, and Arabs, before becoming a center of Islamic culture and learning. In the 19th century, Egypt came under British control, gaining independence in 1952. Today, Egypt is a republic with a mix of modern and ancient influences, with a diverse population and a significant cultural impact on the region.