Egipto y sus guerreros| La civilización Egipcia y parte de su historia bélica

Summary

This video explores the evolution of the Egyptian military, from its humble beginnings with untrained warriors to the formation of a permanent army during the New Kingdom period. The army was organized with infantry, elite units, and war chariots. Key figures such as Thutmose III and Ramses II expanded Egypt’s influence through military campaigns. The role of mercenaries, including Asian and Libyan soldiers, was crucial to Egypt’s defense and conquests. The video also touches on the rise of Mamluks and their eventual power in Egypt, as well as their defeat by Napoleon’s forces.

Takeaways

• 😀 The early Egyptian military was not professional, relying on conscripted men who lacked training.
• 😀 Over time, Egypt established a permanent army to defend against invaders from Asia Minor and Libya.
• 😀 During the New Kingdom, Egypt's military reached its organizational peak, with infantry divisions named after gods.
• 😀 The Egyptian army's infantry was the core, with elite units such as chariot corps supporting them.
• 😀 Soldiers trained in long desert marches and hand-to-hand combat, with a bravery medal known as the 'gold of courage'.
• 😀 Soldiers were typically equipped with a spear, shield, sword, and sometimes a dagger, but wore simple padded headgear.
• 😀 Chariot warfare was introduced during Egypt's Second Intermediate Period and was initially restricted to noble families.
• 😀 Mercenaries, often of Asian or Libyan origin, were recruited during times of instability, and some could rise to high ranks.
• 😀 Pharaohs, like Thutmose III and Ramses II, led troops in battle and expanded Egypt’s empire and influence significantly.
• 😀 The famous Mamluks were slave soldiers who rose to power, establishing their own dynasties and influencing Egyptian politics.
• 😀 Napoleon's invasion of Egypt in 1798 defeated the Mamluks at the Battle of the Pyramids, leading to their decline.

Q & A

What was the state of Egypt's military at the beginning of its history?

At the start of ancient Egypt's history, there was no professional army. During times of conflict, royal officials recruited men to serve as soldiers, but these individuals lacked military training or formal organization.

When did Egypt establish a permanent army and what was the main reason for this change?

A permanent army was established when it became necessary to defend Egypt's crops from invaders, primarily from Asia Minor and Libya. This led to the creation of a more structured and professional military force.

How was the ancient Egyptian military organized during the New Kingdom period?

During the New Kingdom, the Egyptian military was organized into divisions of infantry, which were named after gods. These divisions were further divided into battalions and smaller companies. The military also had elite units such as the chariot divisions.

What role did the visir and the director of arsenals play in Egypt's military?

The visir was in charge of overseeing the army, while the director of arsenals managed logistics, ensuring that soldiers were equipped with weapons and supplies. The director of infantry handled the training and organization of the troops.

What type of training did Egyptian soldiers undergo?

Egyptian soldiers were primarily trained through long marches across the desert and in close combat, which also served as a form of entertainment for the pharaoh.

What was the 'gold of courage' and how did it relate to soldiers' behavior?

The 'gold of courage' was a decoration given to soldiers who displayed exceptional bravery in battle. Soldiers who showed cowardice could be punished, including possible demotion or execution.

What was the typical attire of Egyptian soldiers?

Soldiers typically wore a linen loincloth or kilt, along with a hardened triangular linen piece to protect their genitals. Helmets were made from padded cloth rather than metal.

What benefits did Egyptian soldiers receive upon retirement?

Upon retirement, soldiers were granted land (approximately three hectares), livestock, and service personnel. This land could be inherited by their descendants, provided they had a male capable of serving in the military.

What role did mercenaries play in the Egyptian military?

Mercenaries, often from Asia and Libya, were used as auxiliary troops during times of instability. Over time, some foreign mercenaries were promoted to high ranks in the Egyptian military, especially during the reign of Ramses II.

Who was Thutmose III and why is he significant in Egyptian military history?

Thutmose III is considered one of Egypt's greatest pharaohs, known for expanding Egypt’s empire and securing major victories against the Syrians and Canaanites. His reign marked a significant military expansion, earning him the title 'Napoleon of Egypt'.