Question: I am in the 8th grade currently doing a History Day Report. I am doing my report on Ancient Egyptians and how they used Hieroglyphics for communication purposes. In doing this report I must have three interviews either over the phone or e-mail. I recently visited your site which gave me a lot of great information. So if you could possibly answer a few questions I have that would be great.

1. Overall, what main impact have Hieroglyphs had on history?
2. Out of the three scripts that the Egyptians used (Hieroglyphs, Demotic, and Hieratic) which one was the most popular as far as use?
3. What was the main reason for the Egyptians to come up with their own language?

Answer: Welcome to the fascinating world of ancient Egypt. The more you learn, the, more you will want to know. Here are your questions:

1. Overall, what main impact have hieroglyphs had on history? Before Jean-Francois Champollion (1790-1832) cracked the code, very little was known about ancient Egypt and scholars knew nothing of the religion, life, kings and history of Egypt. Now, with the discovery of each new artefact, temple or tomb and the study of the hieroglyphic records found, more and more is learned every day. Dr Zahi Hawass, the head of the Antiquities authorities in Egypt believes that there is much more to emerge from the sands of Egypt yet.
2. Demotic was used to record everyday affairs, both personal and business, so it would have been the most popular. Demotic was a simplified form of hieroglyphs and so it was easier to write and learn than the complicated hieroglyphic script.Hieroglyphs were used for religious and important state matters. Mostly only used by professional scribes, priests and highly educated individuals.
3. What was the main reason for the Egyptians to come up with their own language? As the ancient Egyptians began to organise themselves into towns and areas under a leader, it was important to record and communicate information about religion and government. A script was developed to make the records permanent.The Egyptians built up a highly organised bureaurocracy. To maintain that they needed records and official communication. Best of luck with your assignment.