2. What is the significance of the Battle of Kadesh?
The Battle of Kadesh was important in many respects. Not only was this battle one of the first ever to have a surviving tactical record of events, it also led to the negotiation of one of the first peace treaties ever. (Manual 110-111)
Background of the Fight
This clash between the Hittites and the Egyptians occurred as Egypt regained its imperialist mindset. Under the reign of Seti I Egyptian forces reached as far as Kadesh on the Orontes River; however, there was no conflict between Egypt and the Hittites until the end of his reign in 1279 BC. When Ramesses II ascended to the throne in 1279 BC, war with the Hittites loomed in the future, and Hittite king Muwatallis enlisted his allies. (Manual 110) In 1274 BC, the armies of the two sides met at Kadesh; the resulting battle was not a clear win for either side. [1]
Tactical Records of the Battle
This battle between imperialist Egypt and similarly expanding Hatti was one of the first ever with a tactical record of events. Egypt's army of 20,000 advanced to Hatti in the North. Muwatallis tricked Ramesses II into thinking that Hittite forces were far away, then ambushed the Egyptians. The resulting battle was a momentous clash for the time; almost 6,000 chariots rode into battle. Neither side enjoyed a clear win; many from each nation died. [2]
The Peace Treaty
In 1266 BC, Hattusilis III gained power in the Hittite Kingdom, leading to a time of relative peace. Relations between the Hittites and Egypt improved under Hattusilis, possibly because both sides wanted to protect themselves from Assyria's military machine. In 1259 BC, Hattusilis negotiated a treaty with Ramesses II that is now known as one of the world's first peace treaties. Thirteen years later, the two sides were bonded further when Hattusilis' daughter married the pharaoh.
"Chapter 5: Near East: Levant and Anatolia Civilizisations." Cultural Foundations of Ancient Eastern Civilizations. Compiled by Rosie Beniretto. Published in Houston, Texas by St. John's School 2013-2014
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