Calvary
Created by Ethan . J
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With the rise of the Achaemenid Empire, a new force had risen in importance to continue conquering the vast lands Cyrus had envisioned. Cavalry had become an effective force in dominating the cities of the middle east, being used in a variety of roles from a quick scouting part, guarding flanks of main armies, and crushing retreating forces in a quick and very effective way. The gear, equipment, and ability to adapt to foes had been key in the Achaemenid empire's quick expansion.
Equipment used
Equipment used
The equipment used by all sorts of Achaemenidian cavalry had been vital in combating not only ranking armies, but against cavalry too. Using long lances, specialized swords, and throwing missiles had ensured dominance over any other threat
As seen here, you can see two missiles used at combating cavalry from a range, while also acting as a close quarters combat tool in case of emergency. Geared up far better than the average infantry, metal helmets typically made of bronze protected from blows and debris from combat.
How did it work?
How did it work?
+ Used for skirmishing against cavalry, and engaging enemy ranks from afar
- Lacked strength to take on heavy opponents, as light skirmish tactics weren't effective against phalanxes
+ Used against strong walls and formations of mainly Greek formations
- Still outclassed against said heavy phalanxes, forcing units to fight more strategically and clever to break lines
Light cavalry expanded
Light cavalry expanded
The original role of light cavalry was used as an effective strike group that had high mobility incase of danger. Concentrated in small units, these groups would be used as quick reconnaissance by scouting out for movements, suitable land for camp, and supply routes that could be used by the enemy. This information would be vital in many of the conquests of the Asian theater during the expansion of the Achaemenid Empire. Armed with a light bow,plenty of arrows, little to no armor, and a few throwing missiles. This was perfect for engaging units from afar, and being able to retreat in case of emergency. Though with the invasion of Greece, this form of light cavalry was deemed unfit for combating the heavy shield walls used.
Heavy cavalry expanded
Heavy cavalry expanded
Giving heavy cavalry long spears and close range swords had made Cavalry highly effective in countering shield walls that the Greeks had used. Being able to puncture a specific spot to weaken then fall back due to high mobility proved to be very helpful in the eventual breakdown of formations. Even more so when retreating forces ran away in messy blobs, the quick strikes of the short swords wielded by these cavalry mowed them down as they were helpless to the assault without an organized formation.
The famous mosaic of Alexander The Great in Pompeii actually has this depiction of Achaemenid cavalry!
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