- Religious Reforms: Akhenaten introduced a monotheistic religion centered around the worship of the sun god Aten. He suppressed the traditional polytheistic beliefs and dismantled the power of the priests of other gods.
- Artistic Innovations: Akhenaten broke with conventional artistic styles, introducing a more naturalistic and expressive art form that depicted him and his family in unprecedented ways.
- New Capital City: He moved the capital of Egypt from Thebes to a newly built city called Akhetaten (present-day Amarna), dedicated to Aten. This shift disrupted the traditional political and religious centers.
- Foreign Policy Changes: Akhenaten pursued a more isolationist foreign policy, reducing Egypt's military involvement abroad. He focused on diplomatic relations and trade with neighboring regions.
- Shift in Power Structures: Akhenaten reorganized the government, reducing the power of the traditional bureaucracy and installing his supporters in key positions.
- Amarna Period: The period of Akhenaten's reign, known as the Amarna Period, marked a significant departure from the past. It brought dramatic changes to religious beliefs, art, politics, and society, which created tensions and disruptions within Egypt.
- Return to Traditional Practices: After Akhenaten's death, his successors reversed many of his reforms, restoring traditional religious practices and political structures.
