The Old Kingdom was the period in which most of Egypt's pyramids were built; however, it was during the 3rd Dynasty when many of the first, relatively crude, pyramids were built. During the 4th Dynasty, all of the Great Pyramids at Giza were constructed. During this period, the exploitation of the Sinai Peninsula, which was rich in turquoise and copper, was taking place. Trade outside the Nile Valley began during the reign of Sahure. During the reign of Pepi I the Egyptian army was organized by General Weni and a warrior caste developed. The Old Kingdom came to an end with the death of Pepi II. Following his death, the central government collapsed. This brought about a period of turmoil known as the 1st Intermediate Period.
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