Europe's Fearsome Armored Soldiers: A Graphic History of Warfare

From the dawn of human civilization, warriors have donned armor to protect themselves from harm. In Europe, the development of armor reached its peak during the Middle Ages, when knights clad in full plate armor became the dominant force on the battlefield. This article will explore the history of armored warfare in Europe, from the earliest chain mail to the sophisticated plate armor of the late Middle Ages.

The Early Years

The earliest forms of armor in Europe were simple garments made of leather, hide, or quilted cloth. These materials offered limited protection against weapons, but they were lightweight and allowed for freedom of movement. As warfare became more sophisticated, so too did the armor worn by soldiers. During the Bronze Age, warriors began to wear bronze helmets and breastplates, which offered greater protection than leather or cloth. By the Iron Age, iron had become the dominant material for armor, and soldiers were wearing full suits of iron mail, including helmets, breastplates, and leg guards.

Medieval Knights: Europe's Fearsome Armored Soldiers (Graphic History: Warriors)

by Annette Whipple

4.1 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	48785 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	32 pages

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The Rise of Chain Mail

Chain mail was a major innovation in the history of armor. It was made of thousands of small iron rings linked together, which provided excellent protection against both cuts and thrusts. Chain mail was also flexible and lightweight, allowing soldiers to move freely and fight effectively. It quickly became the standard armor for knights and other elite warriors throughout Europe.

Plate Armor

Plate armor was the pinnacle of medieval armor development. It was made of large, overlapping plates of steel, which were riveted together to form a complete suit of armor. Plate armor offered excellent protection against all types of weapons, and it was also relatively lightweight and easy to wear. Plate armor became the standard armor for knights and other elite warriors during the late Middle Ages, and it remained in use until the advent of gunpowder weapons.

The Decline of Armor

The development of gunpowder weapons in the 14th century marked the beginning of the decline of armor. Gunpowder weapons could penetrate even the thickest plate armor, making it obsolete on the battlefield. By the 16th century, armor had largely disappeared from the battlefield, and it was replaced by lighter and more flexible clothing.

The Legacy of Armored Warfare

The legacy of armored warfare in Europe is vast. It played a major role in the development of warfare and society, and it left a lasting impact on the way that we think about war and combat. Today, armored vehicles are used by militaries around the world, and they continue to play a vital role in modern warfare.

The history of armored warfare in Europe is a fascinating and complex one. From the earliest chain mail to the sophisticated plate armor of the late Middle Ages, armor has played a major role in the development of warfare and society. Today, the legacy of armored warfare can be seen in the armored vehicles that are used by militaries around the world.

Medieval Knights: Europe's Fearsome Armored Soldiers (Graphic History: Warriors)

by Annette Whipple

4.1 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	48785 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	32 pages

FREE