Ramses II's Iron Legacy: The Bronze Weapons of Kadesh

Ramses the Great: Egypt's Most Powerful Pharaoh — Fexingo History · Sep 1, 2026 · 7m · transcript

We often picture the Battle of Kadesh as a clash of chariots and bronze, but the reality was far more complex. In this episode, we examine the material culture of Ramses II’s military machine, focusing on the evolution of weaponry that defined New Kingdom warfare. We explore how the Sherden mercenaries brought new forging techniques to Per-Ramesses, changing the face of combat in Egypt. From the distinctive sickle-swords of the Nubian archers to the standardized bronze dagger found in the tomb of Khaemwaset, these tools were not just weapons but symbols of imperial power. We also look at the…