Thutmosis III ruled Egypt at a time of a passionate resurgence in patriotism and belief in the Egyptian army as a conquering force. The expulsion of the Hyksos and successful incursions into Syria, Canaan and the lands of the Hittites amongst others had provided the Eighteenth Dynasty Pharaohs with a dominant and confident force not to be trifled with.

The phrase 'to extend the frontiers of Egypt' is heard and written for the first time in Egyptian history as a true reflection of Egypt's desire to not only manage its borders, but to conquer neighboring nations purely for the sake of the becoming the dominant civilization in the Near East.

In addition to be the leader of a growing and organized army, Thutmosis was also a genuinely shrewd military leader and politician. He successfully (though obviously unknowingly) mirrored a similar political strategy undertaken by Alexander the Great throughout his career. Chiefs of districts surrendering to Alexander were often given back what they had before the rebellion or resistance initially occurred. This resulted in a far more motivated and subjective region that feared further reprisals from Alexander - they felt lucky to have been given such promising rewards when they fully expected heinous retaliations for their actions. Those that chose to cross Alexander were regularly slaughtered to the last, especially in the later years of his Campaigns on the return from India.

This set a precedent for ruthlessness that was understood very well some 1100 years earlier by Thutmosis III of Egypt, long before Alexander stepped foot into Asia and was even a thought in Philip II of Macedon's eyes. The Pharaoh's actions after Megiddo (some say the siege was short, other sources indicate it lasted 3 years) were unexpected but a very tactical and wise move. He inspired loyalty from the conquered tribes and helped set up a stable region from which to set a foundation for further expansionism Eastwards - exactly has Alexander did in the 4th Century B.C. His troops expected wide scale slaughter and looting upon sieging the town, but instead he re-established it, understanding its benefit to him in the strategic future vision of his campaigns - exactly as Alexander repeated years to come many times.

Though over a millennium apart, there are clear similarities between these two great military leaders - understanding the politics and customs in their chosen regions of conquest, possessing a clear strategic vision of expansionism, and being able to execute wise and shrewd decisions for both strategic and tactical benefit.

BA.