1 Helen Coultis 2012 Discuss how the material evidence of Minoan civilization especially that from Knossos, can be used to build up a picture of Minoan society. Examination of one archaeological site, such as the Palace of Knossos, along with the material evidence that was discovered there can falsely lead investigators into forming an opinion on the origins, socioeconomic, political and religious activities of the people who resided on Crete. This blinkered attitude put into place a mindset that restricted any acceptance of the possibility that each settlement on Crete may have been a totally independent entity. Archaeological evidence can place the start of Minoan civilization and occupation on Crete and the surrounding islands to around 3000 BCE which also corresponds to the predynastic circa in Egypt. It is plausible that colonization in the Aegean basin may have been the product of the continual power struggles within and/or against successive Royal lines throughout the unification process, forcing unsuccessful Princes to flee Egypt together with their followers to establish their own rule over their own people in a new region. Archaeological evidence of the Minoan civilization has shown a close parallel to many Egyptian cultural idiosyncrasies indicating subconscious attachment to their heritage through their artwork, lifestyle and attitudes. The first settlers may have laid the ground work for successive arrivals who may have introduced new ideas, technical skills and trade contacts with other races of people. This author will propose a hypothesis that Minoan civilization was directly related through heritage to the Egyptian race, while some aspects of their culture were modified to accommodate the climatic and geographical differences encountered whereby the isolation created an elitist society, while other aspects of their previous culture were completely abandoned.