Battle of Megiddo 15th century BC: Encyclopedia II - Battle of Megiddo 15th century BC - Battle and siege

Battle of Megiddo 15th century BC - Battle and siege

The Pharaoh recognized the opportunity. He set up camp and, during the night, arrayed his forces close to the enemy. The next morning they attacked. The rebels were on high ground adjacent to the fortress. The Egyptian line was arranged in a concave formation that threatened both rebel flanks. The Pharaoh led the attack from the center. The combination of position and numbers, along with an early, bold attack, broke the enemy's will; their line immediately collapsed. Those near the city fled into it, closing the gates behind them.

The Egyptian soldiers fell to plundering the enemy's camp. Unfortunately, during this confusion, the scattered rebel forces, including the kings of Kadesh and Megiddo, were able to rejoin the defenders inside the city. Those inside lowered clothing to the men and chariots and actually pulled them up over the walls. Thus the opportunity of a quick capture of the city following the battle was lost.

The Egyptians besieged the city. They sent forces throughout the rebel lands; these all readily recognized the sovereignty of Egypt. Still, the city held out for some time -- as much as seven months by some estimates.

The victorious army took home 340 prisoners, 2041 mares, 191 foals, 6 stallions, 924 chariots, 200 suits of armor, 502 bows, 1929 cattle, 22,500 sheep, and the royal armor, chariot and tent-poles of the King of Megiddo. The city and citizens of Megiddo were spared.

Adapted from the Wikipedia article "Battle and siege", under the G.N U Free Docmentation License. Please also see http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki