It immediately follows the unification of Upper and Lower Egypt, by Menes, or Narmer,[2] and marks the beginning of the Early Dynastic Period, when power was centered at Thinis.

"A study on First Dynasty crania from the royal tombs in Abydos generally demonstrated greater affinity with Kerma Kushites, and Upper Nile Valley groups.

[10] Moreover, the analysis too found clear change from earlier craniometric trends, as "lower Egyptian, Maghrebian, and European patterns are observed also, thus making for great diversity".

It is clearly demonstrated as existing during this dynasty by retainers being buried near each pharaoh's tomb as well as animals sacrificed for the burial.

According to historian and linguist Christopher Ehret, the ritual practice of retainer sacrifice originated from the southern region in the Middle Nile.

Ehret also stated that this cultural practice was shared with the Kerma kingdom of the Upper Nubian Nile region.