Read the following passage and answer the question below. The pyramids of ancient Egypt, particularly those at Giza, remain some of the most impressive architectural achievements in human history, built more than four thousand years ago without the aid of modern machinery. These massive structures were primarily built as tombs for pharaohs, intended to protect their bodies and possessions for the afterlife, which the ancient Egyptians believed was a continuation of earthly existence. The construction of the pyramids required an extraordinary level of organization, involving thousands of skilled laborers, engineers, and quarry workers who transported and assembled massive stone blocks with remarkable precision. Contrary to a popular but inaccurate myth, historical and archaeological evidence indicates that the pyramids were built by paid laborers and skilled workers rather than slaves. The Great Pyramid of Giza, built for the pharaoh Khufu, remained the tallest man-made structure in the world for thousands of years. Today, the pyramids continue to draw millions of visitors and remain a subject of ongoing archaeological research. Question: According to the passage, who built the pyramids?
- A. Paid laborers and skilled workers ✓
- B. Enslaved prisoners of war
- C. Foreign mercenaries
- D. Volunteers from other kingdoms
Correct answer
A. Paid laborers and skilled workers
Explanation
The passage explicitly states that evidence indicates the pyramids were built by paid laborers and skilled workers, not slaves.