Page "Battle of Megiddo (15th century BC)" Paragraph 9

Thutmose seized the opportunity.

He set up camp and, during the night, arrayed his forces close to the enemy.

The next morning, they attacked.

It cannot be established if the surprised king of Kadesh had managed to invert his front lines in time, and prepare for battle.

Even if he did that, it did not bring him much help.

His forces were on high ground adjacent to the fortress.

The Egyptian line was arranged in a concave formation, consisting of three wings, that threatened both Caananite flanks.

Both the Egyptians and the Caananites are estimated to have had around 1, 000 chariots and 10, 000 infantry.

The Pharaoh led the attack from the center.

The combination of position and numbers, superior maneuverability of their left wing 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.