This document discusses the cultures of Nubia, including the Kerma, Napata, and Meroë kingdoms. It notes that Nubia was located between Central Africa and Egypt and acted as a trade link. The Kerma culture was the first Nubian state located along the Nile River from around 2500 to 1500 BC. Napata expanded into Egypt under King Taharka but its rule did not last long. Meroë was the southern capital of the Kushite Kingdom from around 800 BC to 280 AD. The cultures of Nubia adopted Egyptian beliefs and built pyramids, while also developing a strong iron industry and international trade.