Final answer:
True, women in ancient Egypt could own property independently of their husbands and had notable legal rights and autonomy, which was exceptional compared to other ancient societies.
Step-by-step explanation:
True. Women in Egypt enjoyed a significant level of legal autonomy compared to their contemporaries in other societies. They had the right to own property independently of their husbands, could initiate divorce, retain ownership of their dowries, and had control over their own inheritances. This level of independence was not common in other ancient societies, and it took much longer for European and American women to achieve similar legal rights.
In addition to their legal rights, Egyptian women could sue to protect their rights and were considered nearly the legal equals of men. Their voices carried weight within their families, and despite men holding official positions in politics, women often exercised influence indirectly. Widows, in particular, were noted to be legally autonomous and would continue to run households upon the death of their husbands.