A History of the Ancient Egyptian Army
The Ancient Egyptian Army originated with the unification of Egypt’s two regions under King Narmer. While the desert borders provided a strong natural defense, early pharaohs primarily relied on citizen-soldiers—especially farmers—to defend the nation during the Old Kingdom.
From Citizen-Soldiers to a Standing Army
For a long time, this system was enough. However, a turning point came when invaders from the north, known as the Hyksos, successfully conquered Lower Egypt. The Hyksos used superior technology, including chariots, which the Egyptians lacked. This defeat taught the Egyptians a valuable lesson: they needed a professional army. They quickly adopted the Hyksos’ innovations, building their own powerful chariots and training a formidable force of soldiers, archers, and charioteers. After a successful campaign to reclaim their land, Egypt established a permanent, standing army. This new military power enabled the pharaohs of the New Kingdom to expand the Egyptian Empire by conquering much of the surrounding territory.
Weapons, Armor, and Chariots
The most important weapon in the Egyptian arsenal was the composite bow, which they adopted from the Hyksos. This advanced bow allowed archers to shoot arrows over 600 feet, effectively neutralizing enemies from a safe distance. Infantry soldiers were equipped with a variety of other weapons, including spears, axes, and short swords. Chariots were crucial for rapid movement and battle superiority. Each chariot was a two-wheeled carriage pulled by two swift horses, carrying two warriors: one driver and one fighter armed with a bow or spear. For protection, Egyptian soldiers typically relied on a shield. Some armor, usually reinforced leather straps, was used, but it was not widespread.
Life as a Soldier
Life as an Egyptian soldier was rigorous. Soldiers underwent constant training to build strength and endurance, and they became proficient with various weapons. While their primary duty was combat, the army also performed other tasks. For example, during peacetime, pharaohs sometimes deployed soldiers to help with large-scale construction projects like pyramids or temples.
Army of Farmers and Labor
If Pharaoh was going to feed all of these men, it was only natural that he would find some use for them at periods of relative tranquillity. Because they are initially farmers, the troops helped out in the fields during planting and harvesting seasons. They also served as laborers on a variety of construction projects, including palaces, temples, and pyramids, among others. The Pharaoh commanded the Egyptian army and was its commander-in-chief. Two generals served under the Pharaoh, one of whom was in charge of the army in Upper Egypt and the other of whom was in charge of the army in Lower Egypt. Each army was divided into three primary divisions: the Infantry, the Chariotry, and the Naval Corps. The generals were almost always close relatives of the Pharaoh or his consorts.
Ancient Egyptian Army Facts and Figures to Consider
Ancient Egyptian society highly respected the lives of its soldiers. After a successful military career, the pharaohs often rewarded them with land and spoils from their victories. While the army sometimes conscripted boys as young as five, they typically did not see combat until they reached about 20 years old. Divisions in the army often bore the names of mythological figures, a practice that further connected the military with the nation’s spiritual beliefs. In conflicts outside of Egypt’s borders, pharaohs also commonly hired foreign mercenaries to fight for them.
Witnessing History First-Hand
If you want to see the artifacts of the Ancient Egyptian army up close, consider visiting one of Egypt’s premier museums. The New National Museum of Egyptian Civilization (NMEC) and the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) both offer a comprehensive look at ancient Egyptian history. The NMEC is located in Cairo and holds a vast collection of artifacts, including the Royal Mummies. The GEM, while having a limited public opening, is a massive archaeological museum located near the Pyramids of Giza that is set to house the complete Tutankhamun collection once it’s fully open.
Travel Like the Ancients
For a truly immersive experience, you can travel like the Ancient Egyptian army once did. By taking a Nile River cruise, you can sail from south to north, following the same routes they would have used to transport troops and supplies. Many of these cruises are available as part of all-inclusive Egypt vacation packages.
Is there a specific aspect of the ancient Egyptian army you’d like to learn more about, such as their battle tactics or a particular pharaoh’s campaigns?
