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The Answer is Meroë refers to an ancient city on the east bank of the Nile River, approximately 200 kilometers northeast of Khartoum in present-day Sudan. It was the capital of the Kingdom of Kush for several centuries. The Kingdom of Kush was a powerful Nubian civilization that flourished between the 8th century BCE and the 4th century CE, and Meroë was its most prominent city from around 300 BCE to 300 CE.

Meroë is particularly notable for its archaeological sites, including a large number of pyramids—smaller than their Egyptian counterparts but similar in design—which served as tombs for the kings and queens of Kush. The site is also known for its iron production; the area is littered with slag from iron smelting, indicating an advanced knowledge of ironworking that was rare in the ancient world.

The city's wealth came from trade, as it was strategically located at the crossroads of major trade routes, connecting sub-Saharan Africa, the Red Sea, the Nile Valley, and the African interior. Goods such as iron, gold, ivory, and exotic animals were traded by the Kushites.

Meroë's culture was a blend of indigenous African elements and borrowed traditions from Egypt, which is evident in its art, architecture, and religious practices. The Meroitic script, the written language of the Kingdom of Kush, has been partially deciphered but remains a subject of research as not all of its aspects are fully understood.

The decline of Meroë began in the 4th century CE, due to a combination of economic and environmental factors, including deforestation caused by the demands of iron smelting. The city was eventually abandoned, and the Kingdom of Kush fell into decline. Today, the ruins of Meroë are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for their historical significance and contribution to our understanding of ancient African civilizations.

Instructions: Explain/Define the Following Terms

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