Abstract：During the New Kingdom period, chariots were not only important weapons in West Asia and North Africa but also became a key element in the construction of Egyptian imperial ideology. In the context of war, Egyptian texts frequently depict the Egyptian army defeating enemy chariots, showcasing their military might and the enemies' weaknesses, thereby reinforcing Egypt's image as a military power. In times of peace, chariots were considered as symbolic gifts in diplomatic exchanges between great powers, highlighting Egypt's friendly relations with other West Asian empires. Additionally, chariots served as significant symbols of the dependent relationship between vassals and their suzerain, with vassal states expressing loyalty to their suzerains by presenting chariots, while Egypt demonstrated its military might through the display of these chariots. In the New Kingdom period, the expression of kingship was closely intertwined with imperial ideology. By depicting Pharaohs riding chariots and valiantly killing enemies, not only were the military talents of the Pharaohs highlighted, but their role as protectors of the nation was also reinforced. In the era of the New Kingdom, chariots became an important means for Egypt to demonstrate its foreign conquests, diplomatic engagements, and maintenance of the pharaoh's authority, while also showcasing Egypt's dual advantages in military and cultural prowess.

Published on The World History Review, Issue 2, 2025.