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James Henry Breasted (1865-1935) was an American archaeologist and historian specializing in ancient Egypt and the Near East. He was one of the pioneers in the field of Egyptology and made significant contributions to the study of ancient Egyptian history. Breasted's work emphasized the importance of primary sources and he was instrumental in establishing the Oriental Institute at the University of Chicago.In "Development of Religion and Thought in Ancient Egypt," Breasted examines the evolution of religious beliefs in ancient Egypt from the prehistoric period to the late antiquity. The book delves into topics such as the role of the pharaohs as divine rulers, the nature of Egyptian gods and goddesses, the significance of funerary rituals and the afterlife, and the development of religious texts such as the Pyramid Texts and the Book of the Dead.Breasted's work provides valuable insights into the religious and intellectual life of ancient Egypt, shedding light on the worldview, cosmology, and spiritual practices of this fascinating civilization. It remains an important reference for scholars and anyone interested in ancient Egyptian religion and thought.