Ancient Egyptian Princesses Were Trained Warriors

Topic: History

Archaeologists studied six royal mummies from Egypt's Middle Kingdom and found evidence that at least some of these women were physically trained to handle weapons. The study suggests that they regularly practiced activities like archery and hunting, which is different from previous interpretations that saw the weapons as ceremonial objects.

For years, archaeologists have been trying to understand why some ancient Egyptian princesses were buried with weapons. A new study of six royal mummies from Egypt's Middle Kingdom has provided an answer.

The research focused on the remains of six individuals who were originally uncovered at Dahshur, an Egyptian burial complex, in the 1890s. Four of these individuals were sisters and daughters of Pharaoh Amenemhat II. They had been placed in matching underground burial chambers, which is unusual for royal burials.

The study found that the princesses' skeletons showed signs of regular physical activity, particularly in their upper bodies. This suggests that they regularly practiced activities like archery and hunting. The researchers also found evidence of past injuries, illnesses, and other aspects of the individuals' health.

Princess Ita was a young woman who had strong upper-body muscle attachments, suggesting she habitually used weapons like maces or daggers. Princess Khenmet was a woman in her late 30s or 40s who showed signs of thinning bones but had very robust ligament attachments. Princess Itaweret was a young woman who survived broken ribs and foot fractures; her skeleton shows she was a skilled archer.

The study's lead author, Dr. Zeinab Hashesh, said that the findings suggest that repeated weapon use was part of these royals' lives rather than an occasional activity.

Why It Matters

This discovery helps us understand the daily lives and activities of ancient Egyptian royalty, which can provide insights into their culture and society.

Key Facts

• The study focused on six royal mummies from Egypt's Middle Kingdom, including four sisters and daughters of Pharaoh Amenemhat II.
• The princesses' skeletons showed signs of regular physical activity, particularly in their upper bodies.
• The researchers found evidence that the women regularly practiced activities like archery and hunting.
• Princess Ita was a young woman who had strong upper-body muscle attachments, suggesting she habitually used weapons like maces or daggers.
• The study's findings suggest that repeated weapon use was part of these royals' lives rather than an occasional activity.

Key Terms

Bioarchaeology

The study of human remains to understand past cultures and societies.

Osteological reexamination

A detailed examination of skeletal remains to determine age, sex, and other characteristics.

Implications

This discovery helps us understand the daily lives and activities of ancient Egyptian royalty, which can provide insights into their culture and society.