| Field | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Zahi Abass Hawass |
| Date of Birth | May 28, 1947 |
| Birth Place | Al-‘Ubaydiyah, near Damietta, Egypt |
| Occupation | Egyptologist, Archaeologist, Author |
| Education | B.A. in Greek and Roman Archaeology, Alexandria University (1967); Diploma in Egyptology, Cairo University (1980); Ph.D. in Egyptology, University of Pennsylvania (1987) |
| Notable Discoveries | Valley of the Golden Mummies (1996), Tomb of the Pyramid Builders (1990), Osiris Shaft (2006) |
| Ministerial Roles | Minister of State for Antiquities Affairs (2011) |
| Media Presence | Host of "Chasing Mummies" on the History Channel |
| Publications | Author of over 30 books including "The Golden Age of Tutankhamun", "Secrets from the Sand" |
| Awards | Order of Merit of the Italian Republic, Golden Plate Award from the American Academy of Achievement |
| Legacy Projects | Ongoing excavations and research projects, including the search for the tomb of Queen Nefertiti |
| Controversies | Criticism for management style, allegations of corruption (cleared of wrongdoing) |
Early Life and Education
Zahi Abass Hawass was born on May 28, 1947, in the small village of Al-‘Ubaydiyah, near Damietta, Egypt. His early years were marked by a fascination with ancient Egypt, although his initial ambition was to become a lawyer. The turning point came when he discovered a passion for archaeology during a summer job at the Giza Pyramids, igniting a lifelong dedication to Egyptology.
He pursued his studies at Alexandria University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Greek and Roman Archaeology in 1967. Hawass continued his education, obtaining a Diploma in Egyptology from Cairo University in 1980 and a Ph.D. in Egyptology from the University of Pennsylvania in 1987.
Career Beginnings and Early Discoveries
Hawass's early career was marked by significant discoveries and excavations. In the Nile Delta, he unearthed the Valley of the Golden Mummies in 1996, a site containing over 250 Greco-Roman mummies, showcasing the wealth and diversity of ancient Egyptian society. This discovery was pivotal, drawing international attention and significantly boosting tourism revenue in Egypt.
Minister of State for Antiquities Affairs
Hawass served as Minister of State for Antiquities Affairs twice, first from 2011 to 2011 and again briefly in 2011. His tenure was characterized by his efforts to combat the illicit trade in antiquities and to repatriate stolen artifacts.
Under his leadership, Egypt successfully reclaimed several key pieces, including the Eye of Amenhotep III, valued at over $1 million. His work in this area underscored the importance of preserving cultural heritage and brought a renewed sense of national pride.
Significant Excavations and Contributions
One of Hawass's most notable achievements was the discovery of the Tomb of the Pyramid Builders at Giza in 1990, which provided invaluable insights into the lives of the workers who built the pyramids. This discovery challenged long-held beliefs about the construction of these ancient wonders, offering evidence that the workers were not slaves but skilled laborers who were well-fed and housed.
In 2006, Hawass led the excavation of the Osiris Shaft, a unique subterranean complex at Giza believed to be a symbolic tomb of the god Osiris. The project cost an estimated $10 million and was funded by the Egyptian government and private donors. The findings included a series of chambers and tunnels filled with artifacts, shedding light on ancient Egyptian religious practices.
Television and Media Appearances
Hawass's charismatic personality and extensive knowledge made him a popular figure in the media. He hosted several television programs, including "Chasing Mummies" on the History Channel, which brought the excitement of archaeological discovery to a global audience. His media presence significantly raised public awareness about Egyptology and inspired a new generation of archaeologists.
Publications and Scholarly Work
Hawass has authored over 30 books and numerous articles on Egyptology, contributing significantly to the field's academic literature. His works, such as "The Golden Age of Tutankhamun" and "Secrets from the Sand", have been widely acclaimed for their depth and accessibility. These publications have not only enriched scholarly discourse but also generated substantial revenue, with some books selling over 100,000 copies worldwide.
Controversies and Challenges
Despite his many accomplishments, Hawass's career has not been without controversy. He faced criticism for his management style and for the commercialization of Egypt's ancient heritage. In 2011, amid the political upheaval of the Arab Spring, he resigned from his ministerial post amid allegations of corruption, which he vehemently denied. An independent investigation later cleared him of any wrongdoing.
Legacy and Continuing Influence
Today, Hawass continues to be a prominent figure in Egyptology. He is actively involved in ongoing excavations and research projects, including the search for the tomb of Queen Nefertiti, a project with an estimated budget of $5 million. His efforts have been instrumental in advancing our understanding of ancient Egypt and preserving its treasures for future generations.
Awards and Honors
Hawass's contributions to archaeology have been recognized with numerous awards, including the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic and the Golden Plate Award from the American Academy of Achievement. These accolades highlight his impact on the field and his role as a global ambassador for Egypt's cultural heritage.
FAQs
What inspired Zahi Hawass to pursue a career in archaeology?
Zahi Hawass discovered his passion for archaeology during a summer job at the Giza Pyramids, which shifted his initial ambition from becoming a lawyer to dedicating his life to Egyptology.
What are some of Zahi Hawass's significant discoveries?
Hawass's significant discoveries include the Valley of the Golden Mummies, the Tomb of the Pyramid Builders at Giza, and the Osiris Shaft, each providing valuable insights into ancient Egyptian society and religious practices.
What roles did Zahi Hawass serve in the Egyptian government?
Hawass served as the Minister of State for Antiquities Affairs in 2011, focusing on combating the illicit trade in antiquities and repatriating stolen artifacts to Egypt.
How has Zahi Hawass contributed to public awareness of Egyptology?
Through his charismatic media presence, including hosting "Chasing Mummies" on the History Channel, and authoring over 30 books, Hawass has significantly raised public awareness and inspired a new generation of archaeologists.
What challenges has Zahi Hawass faced in his career?
Hawass has faced criticism for his management style and commercialization of Egypt's heritage. He also faced, but was later cleared of, corruption allegations during the political upheaval of the Arab Spring in 2011.
What ongoing projects is Zahi Hawass involved in?
Hawass is actively involved in ongoing excavations and research projects, including the high-profile search for the tomb of Queen Nefertiti, aiming to uncover more secrets of ancient Egypt.
What recognition has Zahi Hawass received for his contributions to archaeology?
Hawass has received numerous awards, including the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic and the Golden Plate Award from the American Academy of Achievement, highlighting his global impact on the field of Egyptology.
Conclusion
Zahi Hawass's journey from a small village in Egypt to becoming one of the world's most renowned Egyptologists is a testament to his passion, dedication, and unwavering commitment to uncovering the secrets of ancient Egypt. His discoveries, publications, and media presence have left an indelible mark on the field of Egyptology, ensuring that the legacy of Egypt's ancient civilization continues to inspire and educate people around the world.